India Cooling Action Plan: Energy & Climate Focus

India Launches Pioneering Cooling Action Plan

Why in the News ?

India has become one of the first countries globally to implement a Cooling Action Plan aimed at reducing the harmful environmental impact of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and promoting sustainable resource use, announced by Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav during World Ozone Day 2025.

About India’s Cooling Action Plan and Achievements:

• Bhupender Yadav, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), announced India’s Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) as a pioneering effort to tackle climate impacts from cooling technologies.
• India achieved a 5% reduction in Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) production and usage, a significant milestone towards environmental sustainability.
• The plan focuses on promoting energy-efficient cooling technologies and reducing the environmental footprint of refrigeration and air-conditioning systems.
• The initiative was highlighted during the 31st World Ozone Day event held in New Delhi, themed “From Science to Global Action”.
• The event gathered students, policymakers, and delegates from across India to discuss global climate and ozone protection strategies.

Capacity Building and Awareness Initiatives

• Tanmay Kumar, Secretary in MoEFCC, urged people to shift away from disruptive consumption patterns and focus on efficient use of resources.
• To support the plan, the Ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will supply modern training equipment to 120 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
• These ITIs will train students in sustainable cooling technologies to prepare them for industry challenges and promote employment in the green cooling sector.
• The government’s effort aims to create skilled manpower in the energy efficiency and cooling technology sector.
• The program promotes awareness about the environmental hazards of Hydrofluorocarbons and encourages alternatives aligned with global climate goals.