India Ranks 10th in Climate Change Performance Index 2025, Highlighting Progress and Challenges
India has secured the 10th spot in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2025, which evaluates the climate actions of over 60 countries. While this marks a drop of two positions from the previous year, the report commended India’s low per capita emissions and advancements in renewable energy as significant strengths.
Top Spots Remain Vacant
The first three positions on the CCPI were left unoccupied, as no country achieved a “very high” rating across all categories. Denmark ranked highest at fourth place, followed by the Netherlands and the UK.
Major emitters like China and the US fared poorly, ranking 55th and 57th, respectively, due to ongoing challenges in reducing coal dependency and insufficient climate policies.
India’s Strengths
India’s per capita emissions, at 2.9 tons of CO2 equivalent, are significantly below the global average of 6.6 tCO2e. The report highlighted India’s achievements in renewable energy, including large-scale solar initiatives and the Rooftop Solar Scheme. India has set a target to reach 500 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Despite being the most populous country, India’s energy use and emissions remain relatively low compared to global standards, a key factor in its high ranking.
Challenges in Climate Policy
The report flagged India’s heavy reliance on coal as a critical challenge. India possesses some of the largest coal reserves and is ramping up production to meet growing energy demands.
Experts noted that while India is making strides in renewable energy, its climate policies are unlikely to shift drastically in the near term, as the country prioritizes industrial and population-driven growth.
Global Performance Overview
The CCPI assessed 63 countries and the EU, accounting for 90% of global emissions. India and the UK were the only G20 nations to achieve “high performer” status.
Countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, and the UK earned top spots for phasing out coal and advancing renewable energy policies. In contrast, China and the US remain hampered by coal dependence and inadequate climate strategies.
Lowest Performers
At the bottom of the rankings were Iran (67th), Saudi Arabia (66th), the UAE (65th), and Russia (64th). These nations, heavily reliant on oil and gas, performed poorly due to insufficient action in transitioning away from fossil fuels.
The CCPI 2025 underscores the need for nations to intensify efforts to combat climate change, balancing economic growth with sustainable energy practices.
