New Delhi, October 11 (H.S.) – Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh emphasized that climate change is a reality affecting everyone, and in such a time, green growth represents our shared future. He underlined the importance of collaboration and partnership, especially with nations of the Global South and small island developing states that are most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change and rising sea levels threatening their very existence.

Speaking at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference held in Bridgetown, Barbados, on the theme “The Commonwealth – A Global Partner,” Harivansh highlighted the significance of solidarity within the Global South in addressing climate challenges. He outlined India’s vision for cooperation with the Commonwealth, particularly with island nations, on issues of climate and energy.

Harivansh also mentioned India’s pioneering role in establishing the International Solar Alliance to promote renewable energy for all. He recalled India’s contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying medicines and vaccines to over 100 countries. Additionally, he underlined India’s capacity-building initiatives benefiting several Commonwealth nations under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, through which over 2,00,000 civil and defense officials from more than 160 countries have been trained so far. Since 2014, India has provided nearly 1,00,000 advanced training and scholarship opportunities in premier institutions.

The Indian delegation to the conference is being led by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The delegation includes Dr. D. Purandeswari, Dr. K. Sudhakar, Dr. Ajit Gopchade, D. Rekha Sharma, and presiding officers from various states, along with the Secretaries-General of both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar