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The year 2024 has been a busy year for India’s diplomatic engagements. Amidst a host of significant developments, one that got relatively lesser attention is the renewed bilateral partnership between India and Germany that was cemented during the 7th India-Germany Intergovernmental Consultations (IGC) held in New Delhi in October. This has significant implications for India’s climate and water security goals. The IGC led to a joint statement wherein both the nations announced a robust collaborative roadmap and reiterated the importance of Indo-German Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP) — where both water and climate feature as an important component. What does it mean for advancing India’s water security paradigm and how does this locate in the broader context of the India-EU partnership?

Monitoring is critical to enhancing the efficacy of subnational climate actions through course correction and data-driven decision-making. Karnataka’s monitoring strategy for its climate action stands out in terms of its progressive and innovative steps. However, mere policy coverage to support climate action may not be a valid indicator of its effectiveness. Periodic review and assessment are needed to increase policy stringency for strategic innovation and sustainable solution. Out of 36 States and Union Territories of India, 34 have already developed their state action plans on climate change (SAPCCs). Timely assessment of their performance will provide insights into their implementation progress and how that can be further improved.

As India sets its sights on becoming a developed nation by 2047 under the ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat or developed India, the synergy between federalism and economic governance can become pivotal in realizing it.