In a significant move towards fostering global commitments for a sustainable future, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Bhupender Yadav, affirmed India's dedication not only to domestic progress but also to steering worldwide efforts. Speaking at the launch of Green Rising, an initiative aimed at catalyzing youth-led climate actions and solutions, Yadav emphasized India's commitment to the principle of 'Vasudaiva Kutumbakam' – One World, One Family, One Future.
Addressing the audience on 'The Green Rising: Powering Youth Action & Solutions for Climate' at COP28 in Dubai, UAE, the Minister underscored the critical role of the youth in achieving a sustainable world. Recognizing that the younger generation is disproportionately affected by climate change, Yadav acknowledged their indispensable contribution as agents of change, entrepreneurs, innovators, and environmentally conscious individuals.
While acknowledging the youth's pivotal role, Yadav asserted that it is the responsibility of governments to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills for driving positive change. This includes a combination of technological prowess and environmental awareness.
Delving into the root cause of the climate crisis, the Minister highlighted the disconnect with nature and cautioned against viewing environmental restoration solely through an economic lens. India, he stated, is committed to the principle of 'saving ecology and driving economy,' with a global consensus emerging in the same direction.
Yadav stressed the importance of joint initiatives that build the capacity of youth as future leaders and driving forces of the climate regime. Citing India's National Mission for Strategic Knowledge on Climate Change, he highlighted the focus on creating awareness among students and youths.
The Minister expressed satisfaction with the global initiative, the Green Credits Initiative, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at COP28. This initiative aims to incentivize voluntary pro-planet actions, fostering global collaboration, cooperation, and partnership in environmental initiatives.
Encouraging businesses from both the public and private sectors to join hands in pursuing sustainable practices, Yadav reiterated India's commitment to the idea that fighting climate change requires individual and community-level contributions.
Discussing the Green Rising Global Initiative, the Minister outlined its goal to empower at least 10 million children and youth, especially girls, in developing countries. This aligns with the Indian government's vision for the sustainable progress of youth, the nation, and the world at large.
Kevin Frey, CEO of Generation Unlimited, highlighted the importance of proactively addressing the challenges of a climate-changed world by scaling up climate education, promoting green skills, fostering green job opportunities, and ensuring meaningful participation of children and youth.
The Green Rising initiative aims to unite leaders across sectors at COP28, spotlighting commitments to integrate children and youth as partners, influencing policymakers toward a more youth-centered perspective, and encouraging organizations to contribute resources and expertise.
The launch event featured the participation of prominent leaders, including Dr. Rania Al Mashat, Minister of International Cooperation, Egypt, Dr. Jeanne d'Arc Mujawamariya, Minister of Environment, Republic of Rwanda, and Dr. Kevin Frey, CEO, Generation Unlimited, UNICEF.
