Former MP Santosh Kumar showcases Green India model at Commonwealth Meet

Former BRS MP Joginipally Santosh Kumar presented the "Green India Challenge" at a Commonwealth Secretariat meeting in London, highlighting India’s citizen-driven ecological restoration efforts. The initiative has planted 196 million trees, installed over 22,000 rainwater harvesting systems, and revived thousands of water bodies.

London: Former BRS Rajya Sabha MP Joginipally Santosh Kumar showcased India’s citizen-led climate action model “Green India Challenge” at a high-level meeting with the Commonwealth Secretariat in London.

Leading a delegation from the Green India Challenge and Igniting Minds Organisation, Santosh Kumar presented a 15-year-long ecological restoration journey to Dr Suresh Yadav, Senior Director for Climate Change and Oceans.

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The delegation explained key achievements, including the planting of 196 million geo-tagged trees, installation of 22,000 rainwater harvesting systems, and revival of thousands of water bodies across India. Inspired by former President of India Dr APJ Abdul Kalam, the initiative was projected as a scalable model for Commonwealth nations.

On the occasion, Santosh Kumar stressed that India was ready to lead climate action from the Global South. “This meeting marks a significant step in India’s commitment to global climate leadership. The Green India Challenge reflects the idea of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” he said, underlining the need for collective action.

The discussions also focused on aligning the programme with global frameworks like the Paris Agreement’s carbon credit mechanism and exploring climate financing through blue bonds.

The Commonwealth Secretariat, which is pushing climate delivery under its 2025–2030 plan, acknowledged the potential of such community-driven models. The Indian delegation expressed readiness to collaborate with member nations on knowledge sharing and scaling up sustainable solutions.