Enhancing Climate Governance: Evaluating Policy Effectiveness and the Role of CDM in India

This paper examines the governance of climate change and the effectiveness of policy frameworks, with a particular focus on the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) within the context of India. Utilizing a doctrinal and non-doctrinal research approach, this study analyses global and national legal frameworks, policies, and their implementation to address climate change. The paper highlights the critical role of international agreements like the UNFCCC and the Kyoto Protocol, while examining India’s engagement through policies such as the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). It identifies significant challenges in policy implementation, including insufficient political will, technological gaps, and financial constraints. The paper also assesses the contribution of CDM projects in India towards reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and achieving sustainable development goals. Despite the potential, the effectiveness of these projects is hampered by challenges in funding, certification processes, and achieving equitable sustainable development benefits. Based on the findings, recommendations are provided to strengthen climate governance and policy frameworks, enhance the efficacy of CDM projects, and ensure equitable and sustainable development outcomes. The paper contributes to the discourse on improving climate change governance and policy effectiveness, offering insights into overcoming implementation challenges in developing countries like India.