India's Statement – 174th CPR Meeting
26 June 2026
Mr. Chair,
Madame Executive Director,
Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates
At the outset, let me join other colleagues in expressing India’s deepest condolences to the people of Venezuela and the Philippines for the tragic loss of lives caused by the devastating earthquakes. We also extend our heartfelt condolences on the sad passing of our UNEP colleague, Tessa Goverse.
India aligns itself with the statement delivered by the Distinguished Representative of Kenya on behalf of the G-77 and China.
My delegation would like to appreciate the Chair, H.E. Mr. Sultan Hajiyev, and commend the UNEP Secretariat for their diligent preparation of today’s agenda and documentation.
We thank Madam ED for timely updates on various programmes being implemented and would request UNEP to continue to update member states on the outcomes of these programmes.
India supports the adoption of the draft minutes of the 173rd meeting of the Committee. We recall our active engagements during that session, particularly regarding India’s updated, highly ambitious Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) for the 2031–2035 period, aiming to reduce the emissions intensity of our GDP to 47% by 2035 and achieving a 60% share of non-fossil fuel-based energy resources. We reaffirm our commitment to these targets.
My delegation would like to thank Madam Executive Director and her team for the comprehensive Quarterly Report and acknowledges the Secretariat’s continued efforts in advancing UNEP’s wider agenda.
We request UNEP for an update on the progress and implementation roadmap for the resolutions adopted during UNEA-7, including the India-led resolution on ‘Strengthening the Global Management of Wildfires’.
On the Plastics Treaty negotiations, India congratulates the new Chair of the INC and reaffirms its commitment to active and constructive engagement in the negotiations, with the objective of achieving an inclusive and consensus-driven instrument to address plastic pollution suitably, while keeping in mind the developmental aspirations of developing countries.
On financial matters, India reiterates the importance of adopting a comprehensive and inclusive approach to environmental challenges. All environmental challenges, particularly those impacting developing nations, should receive equitable attention.
India supports efforts to strengthen UNEP’s accountability, transparency, and operational efficiency. We encourage UNEP to continue enhancing its internal governance and to ensure that resources are deployed effectively to support member states.
India reiterates the importance of strengthening regional representation and ensuring equitable geographical representation across leadership and professional cadres within UNEP. Furthermore, we encourage the institutionalization of robust feedback mechanisms that allow Member States to shape UNEP’s responsiveness and agility.
With regard to the UN80 process, India supports efforts to strengthen coordination, efficiency and effectiveness across the UN system. Member States should be provided with clear evidence and analysis, including assessments of operational impact, financial implications, risks, expected benefits and lessons learned from previous reform efforts.
India reaffirms its steadfast commitment to working constructively with UNEP and member states to foster practical, equitable, and inclusive solutions to global environmental challenges.
I Thank you.
