The Prime Minister welcomed the dignitaries to Chennai and highlighted the city’s rich culture and history. He also encouraged them to visit Mamallapuram, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its inspiring stone carvings and natural beauty.
Quoting the ancient poet Thiruvalluvar, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of giving back to nature. He stressed that protecting and caring for Mother Earth is our fundamental responsibility and called it ‘Climate Action’. He also mentioned India’s traditional knowledge and the concept of ‘Antyodaya’, which means ensuring the development of the last person in society.
The Prime Minister acknowledged that countries in the Global South are particularly affected by climate change and environmental issues. He urged enhanced action on commitments under the UN Climate Convention and the Paris Agreement to help fulfill the developmental aspirations of the Global South in a climate-friendly way.
Shri Modi expressed pride in India’s ambitious ‘Nationally Determined Contributions’ and its achievements in renewable energy. He mentioned that India has achieved its installed electric capacity from non-fossil fuel sources ahead of target and set a new goal of attaining ‘Net Zero’ by 2070. The Prime Minister highlighted India’s collaborations with international alliances such as the International Solar Alliance, CDRI, and the Leadership Group for Industry Transition.
The Prime Minister emphasized India’s efforts in biodiversity conservation, restoration, and enrichment. He mentioned initiatives like the Gandhinagar Implementation Roadmap and Platform for restoring priority landscapes impacted by forest fires and mining. He also highlighted the recently launched International Big Cat Alliance and credited the success of Project Tiger in increasing India’s tiger population. The Prime Minister mentioned ongoing work on Project Lion and Project Dolphin.
Shri Modi highlighted India’s initiatives driven by people’s participation. He mentioned the Mission Amrit Sarovar water conservation initiative, which has developed over 63,000 water bodies in just one year through community participation and technology. He also mentioned the Catch the Rain campaign, which has led to the construction of over 280,000 water harvesting structures. The Prime Minister discussed the success of community participation in the Namami Gange Mission, resulting in the reappearance of the Gangetic Dolphin in many parts of the river. He also mentioned India’s large network of Ramsar sites for wetland conservation.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of responsible use and management of oceanic resources, particularly for Small Island States. He highlighted that oceans are not only crucial economic resources but also support the livelihoods of billions of people worldwide and are home to extensive biodiversity.
In conclusion, the Prime Minister’s address focused on India’s commitment to climate action, renewable energy, biodiversity conservation, and responsible use of natural resources. He called for enhanced global cooperation to address climate change and environmental challenges.
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When, while the lovely valley teems with vapour around me, and the meridian sun strikes the upper surface of the impenetrable foliage of my trees, and but a few stray gleams steal into the inner sanctuary, I throw myself down among the tall grass by the trickling stream; and, as I lie close to the earth.