India Falls to 23rd in Climate Change Performance Index 2026

India Slips 13 Places in Global Climate Change Index 2026

India has recorded one of its sharpest declines in the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2026 , falling 13 places to rank 23rd . The assessment indicates mounting concerns over rising greenhouse gas emissions, heavy reliance on coal and insufficient carbon pricing measures, despite India’s strong momentum in expanding renewable energy installations.

Understanding the Climate Change Performance Index

Released during COP30 in Belem, Brazil , the CCPI evaluates the climate mitigation efforts of 63 countries and the European Union , accounting for over 90% of global emissions. The score is based on four categories— GHG emissions, renewable energy, energy use and climate policy . Notably, the top three global ranks remain empty, signalling that no nation is currently aligned with pathways required to limit warming to safe levels.

India’s Score and Performance Breakdown

With an overall score of 61.31 , India has moved from the “high” to the “medium” performance bracket . The country earns medium ratings in GHG emissions, energy use and climate policy, but receives a low rating on renewable energy , despite significant capacity additions. The CCPI also highlights India’s position among the world’s largest producers of coal, oil and gas, pointing to an underlying contradiction between development priorities and climate commitments.

Renewable Growth Continues, but Coal Dominates

India has achieved major milestones such as 50% non-fossil power capacity well before the 2030 deadline , and renewable energy now accounts for around 14% of the overall energy mix. Solar installations—particularly rooftop systems—have expanded rapidly. However, the continued rise in coal production, new mining auctions and the absence of a formal coal exit plan remain key concerns.

Exam-Oriented Facts

• India ranks 23rd in CCPI 2026 , dropping 13 places from last year.

• CCPI assesses 63 countries + EU on four indicators.

• Denmark, the UK and Morocco rank 4th, 5th and 6th ; top three are vacant.

• India has reached 50% non-fossil installed capacity ahead of 2030.