NEW DELHI
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has urged India to adopt a holistic green transition that strengthens green finance, boosts recycling systems, and simplifies environmental approvals. According to CII, such a shift is essential as India moves toward its goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy. Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said a green transition is not optional anymore but a strategic need for long-term growth, global competitiveness, and climate goals.
CII’s proposals place strong focus on transition finance, circularity, and better ESG reporting. Banerjee said India will require nearly USD 1 trillion in green investments over the next 10 to 15 years and almost USD 10 trillion by 2070 to achieve net-zero emissions. However, only around one-fourth of this requirement is currently being met. To close the gap, he suggested setting up a Green Finance Institution (GFI) in GIFT City. This body would help bring large, low-cost global capital without depending on government spending. It could offer concessional loans, equity support, guarantees, and securitisation to reduce project costs in renewable energy, clean transport, green buildings, and industrial decarbonisation.
CII also proposed a “Green Tech Expo Fund” to help Indian clean-tech companies showcase their innovations at global events and build stronger partnerships. Banerjee stressed that India must develop a strong recycling system for critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, due to high import dependence. He recommended mandatory recycling rules, faster clearances, and Circular Economy Parks for plastics, tyres, e-waste, and batteries.
To speed up approvals, CII suggested a unified Environmental and Climate Clearance Authority with digital systems and automatic approvals for low-emission projects. Banerjee also highlighted the need for energy-efficient buildings supported by nationwide digitalisation and uniform energy codes.
