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By Aayushi Sharma
During a panel discussion on ClimateScanner Global Call: Engaging Supreme Audit Institutions in Assessing National Climate Action, in New York, the Comptroller & Auditor General of India, Shri Girish Chandra Murmu, emphasized the significance of data integrity for impartial audit assessments of national climate action plans. He warned that the absence of such integrity could lead to biases in climate data and misguided policy decisions.
The two-day event, hosted by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) and the Federal Court of Accounts – Brazil (TCU) at the United Nations Headquarters on March 25 and 26, showcased the ClimateScanner initiative led by the Supreme Audit Institution of Brazil. This initiative aims to develop a comprehensive audit tool for evaluating government efforts in addressing climate change.
During the event, CAG Murmu, representing the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, underscored the numerous hurdles faced by Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) in assessing national climate action plans. These challenges include data gaps, incomplete records, and a limited number of climate stations. Moreover, the absence of standardized methodologies and reporting frameworks, along with different countries employing diverse approaches to measure emissions, complicates the task of comparing and aggregating data globally. Shri Murmu emphasized the need for sustained efforts in capacity building and collaboration among SAI members to overcome these challenges effectively.
During the event, CAG Murmu emphasized the undeniable impact of anthropogenic activities on climate change. He highlighted the necessity for establishing an authoritative and comprehensive data repository containing critical environmental parameters. Moreover, he underscored the significance of climate change and principle-based taxonomy, particularly green taxonomy, in guiding economic activities towards achieving climate objectives and facilitating the transition to a low-carbon economy.
“Climate change issues are always interdisciplinary, involving a fine understanding of scientific, economic and policy aspects, apart from a robust reporting and monitoring system at the union and provincial level,” he said.
His statements highlight significant environmental achievements by India, showcasing the country’s commitment to combating climate change and advancing towards a sustainable future. The reduction in greenhouse gas emissions since 2005 and achieving 42% of its cumulative installed capacity from non-fossil fuel sources are major milestones. These efforts align with global objectives to mitigate climate change impacts, indicating India’s proactive role in meeting international targets, such as those set by the Paris Agreement. The progress towards the 50% target by 2030 reflects India’s dedication to increasing the share of renewable energy in its energy mix, further emphasizing the country’s role in the global transition towards cleaner energy sources.
References:
https://cag.gov.in/uploads/PressRelease/PR-PRESS-RELEASE-27-3-24-066040e1f210ee6-93959747.pdf
