Rio de Janeiro: Addressing the BRICS Summit session on Environment, COP-30, and Global Health, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the interconnectedness of environmental sustainability and global health, asserting that these issues are vital for the long-term wellbeing of humanity.
Speaking under the Brazilian chairmanship of BRICS, Modi welcomed the bloc’s prioritization of environment and health, noting the significance of Brazil hosting the upcoming COP-30 climate summit. “The timing of our discussions is crucial,” he said, highlighting the urgency of addressing climate change in a coordinated, global manner.
India’s Cultural and Policy Commitment to the Environment
Modi underlined India’s deep-rooted cultural respect for nature, stating that “climate and environment are not just policy matters, but an integral part of India’s lifestyle.” He noted that in Indian culture, the Earth is revered as a mother, and the country’s environmental policies reflect that ethos.
He cited several flagship Indian initiatives including Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ (A Tree in the Name of Mother) as examples of how India is encouraging people-centric and planet-friendly practices. Other major initiatives mentioned were the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Green Hydrogen Mission, Global Biofuels Alliance, and the Big Cats Alliance.
India’s Leadership in Climate Action
Despite being the fastest-growing major economy in the world, India has made major strides in climate action. Modi noted that India met its Paris Agreement commitments ahead of schedule, and continues to move toward its Net Zero target for 2070.
In the past decade, India has seen a 4000% increase in solar energy capacity, which he described as a transformative step toward green energy and sustainable development. “We are not only changing our policies but also reshaping mindsets and lifestyles,” he said.
Modi also reaffirmed India’s focus on bridging global divides, especially between the Global North and South, during its G20 Presidency. He referred to the Green Development Pact, which garnered consensus among all G20 nations, and the launch of the Green Credits Initiative to incentivize sustainable practices.
Climate Justice and Financing
Calling climate justice a “moral obligation”, Modi stressed that without technology transfer and affordable climate financing, developing countries would be left behind in the climate transition. “Bridging the gap between climate ambition and climate financing is a special and significant responsibility of developed countries,” he asserted.
He emphasized that countries struggling with crises of food, fuel, fertilizers, and finances must not be excluded from the global sustainability framework. Modi welcomed the “Framework Declaration on Climate Finance” adopted during the session and affirmed India’s strong support for it.
Global Health Cooperation and India’s Contributions
Turning to global health, Modi drew on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, stating that viruses do not recognize borders, and collective solutions are essential. “The health of the planet and the health of humanity are deeply intertwined,” he said.
He shared India’s progress under the “One Earth, One Health” initiative, which has strengthened health collaboration with other countries. India is home to Ayushman Bharat, the world’s largest health insurance program, benefiting over 500 million people, he noted.
India has also built a robust ecosystem for traditional medicine, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, and Siddha, while its Digital Health initiatives are expanding healthcare access across remote areas.
Modi offered to share India’s successful health models and experiences with other BRICS nations. He welcomed the progress of the BRICS Vaccine R&D Centre, launched in 2022, as a major milestone in collaborative healthcare innovation.
He also lauded the release of the Leaders’ Statement on BRICS Partnership for the Elimination of Socially Determined Diseases, describing it as a powerful step toward united health efforts across the Global South.
A Vision for Collective Progress
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister called for inclusive development based on equality, cooperation, and mutual trust. He reiterated India’s readiness to lead and collaborate in shaping a future that balances people, planet, and progress.
Modi’s remarks at the summit highlighted India’s commitment not only to domestic sustainability and health but also to fostering global cooperation across climate action and healthcare innovation.
