Every individual has a big role to play in climate action, energy must be consumed optimally: Vice-president Jagdeep Dhankar
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar stressed collective responsibility in climate action, urging sustainable energy use at the RE-INVEST event. He highlighted India’s leadership in renewable energy and job creation through emerging technologies like green hydrogen. The event saw commitments for 540 GW of renewable energy by 2030, substantial investments, and Gujarat’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable development goals.
The Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankar, emphasized today that climate action is not solely the responsibility of the government; every individual plays a significant role. He highlighted the importance of consuming energy optimally and sustainably while speaking at the valedictory session of RE-INVEST on the final day of the three-day event. He noted that the benefits of renewable energy are reaching rural areas and urged everyone to work diligently to mitigate environmental damage and restore natural balance.
He remarked that India is leading in climate action, guided by the principles found in the Vedas and Upanishads. He recalled that the G20 motto “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” which means “the world is one family,” reflects Indian culture. India is addressing global challenges through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance.
Shri Dhankar mentioned that emerging technologies, such as green hydrogen, have the potential to create significant job opportunities for the youth. He described India’s sustainable development model, which accommodates 1.4 billion people and great diversity, as exemplary for the world. He expressed hope that the discussions over the past three days would help accelerate efforts toward sustainability and urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively.
The valedictory session was also attended by the Governors of Gujarat and Punjab, Union Ministers of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and the Chief Minister of Gujarat.
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) of the Government of India, in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry and IREDA, hosted the 4th Global Renewable Energy Investment Meet & Expo (RE-INVEST) from September 16-18, 2024, at Mahatma Mandir in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, under the theme “Invest, Innovate, and Inspire.” The event was inaugurated by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Union Minister of New & Renewable Energy and Consumers Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Shri Pralhad Joshi, stated, “India’s climate action under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership has inspired the world. His vision has positioned India at the forefront of the global transition to sustainable energy.” He noted significant steps taken in the first 100 days of the new government, such as viability gap funding for offshore wind projects and reaching 3.5 lakh beneficiaries under the PM-Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana.
Shri Joshi highlighted key outcomes from RE-INVEST, including commitments from states and Union Territories for 540 GW of renewable energy by 2030, as well as commitments from manufacturers for 340 GW of solar module capacity, 240 GW of solar cell capacity, 22 GW of wind capacity, and 10 GW of electrolyser capacity. Financial institutions have pledged $386 billion towards India’s 2030 goals, which are expected to create 8.2 million jobs.
The event saw participation from around 363 companies, representing both Indian and global businesses, and facilitated approximately 816 B2B (Business to Business) meetings and 110 B2G (Business to Government) meetings.
In acknowledging Gujarat’s significant achievements in renewable energy, Shri Joshi expressed gratitude to the Government of Gujarat for hosting RE-INVEST and stressed the importance of stakeholder involvement in realizing Prime Minister Modi’s vision for a developed India.
Gujarat Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendrabhai Patel stated that Gujarat has become a leader in renewable energy, crediting Prime Minister Modi’s efforts during his tenure as Chief Minister for paving the way, including making the state energy surplus and establishing the first solar park.
Mr. Acharya Devvrat, the Hon’ble Governor of Gujarat, remarked on the negative consequences of nature’s over-exploitation, such as global warming. He called for sustainable growth that respects resources, drawing on India’s cultural heritage that honors the sun and the five basic elements: fire, air, water, earth, and aether. He underscored that renewable energy—solar, wind, and hydro—represents the future of humanity.
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