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India Drops to 23rd in 2026 Climate Index Over Coal Reliance

Assessors cite rising emissions, a missing coal exit timeline, a weak renewable score.

Overview

  • The Climate Change Performance Index 2026 released at COP30 in Belém ranks India 23rd, a fall of 13 places from last year.
  • India is now classed as a medium performer overall, with medium ratings for greenhouse gas emissions, climate policy and energy use, and a low rating for renewable energy.
  • Report authors link the slide to steadily rising emissions, increasing energy demand, the absence of a national coal exit plan, and ongoing auctions for new coal blocks.
  • The index notes India reported reaching 50% of installed power capacity from non‑fossil sources in 2025, ahead of its 2030 NDC target.
  • Country experts recommend a time‑bound coal phase‑down leading to phase‑out, a no‑new‑coal date, redirection of fossil subsidies to decentralized renewables, stronger siting safeguards, and sectoral and state milestones.