India introduced a national climate plan on Monday in response to the threat of global warming. The plan focuses on using renewable energy for sustainable development and creating a climate change fund to research green technologies. The country's policy does not include specific emission targets in order to prevent hindering economic growth. This stance may not satisfy wealthy western countries seeking more commitment from India, one of the top polluters globally. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh emphasized the importance of making India's economic development energy efficient and providing its citizens with opportunities for economic and social growth. Despite India's commitment to clean technology, coal continues to be the main source of power in the country, making up approximately 60 percent of electricity generation. The government plans to add 70,000 megawatts to the power sector in the next five years. A recent report by Goldman Sachs warned that climate change could have negative effects on India's land area, productivity, labor productivity, and increase the risk of toxic waste in the environment. The report stated that while these predictions may be premature, the combination of urbanization, industrialization, and global climate change could have severe consequences on India's environment if not properly managed. India argues that it needs more energy to lift its population out of poverty and points out that its per-capita emissions are significantly lower than those of wealthy nations that have been burning fossil fuels since the industrial revolution. According to U.N. data, India's per-capita carbon dioxide emissions were 1.2 tonnes in 2004, compared to 20.6 tonnes for the United States in the same year. India's economy has been growing at a rate of 8-9 percent annually and currently contributes about 4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this, the country's per capita emissions are not expected to surpass those of developed industrialized nations, according to Singh. As a developing nation, India is not obligated to reduce its emissions under the Kyoto Protocol, even though they are increasing by 2-3 percent each year. Singh mentioned that India is open to transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources gradually, showing flexibility in their plans. The plan for addressing climate change in India is meant to adapt and adjust as circumstances change. Currently, the focus is on improving energy efficiency, utilizing solar energy, preserving water, promoting sustainable agriculture, protecting the Himalayan ecosystem, and creating environmentally-friendly habitats to build a greener India. Prime Minister Singh emphasized that while people desire better living standards, they also prioritize access to clean water, fresh air, and a healthy environment.