Former U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry lauded India's "pretty powerful offering" at the Economic Times World Leaders Forum (ET WLF) 2025. Speaking at the forum, Kerry highlighted India's growing global role and its commitment to renewable energy goals. He also touched upon the trade differences between the U.S. and India, expressing hope for resolution, and noted the significant offering made by India.

Kerry voiced concerns regarding former President Donald Trump's approach to allies, including India, but remained optimistic about resolving trade disputes. He acknowledged the important role of Indians in the U.S. economy and globally. Kerry specifically praised India's ambitious renewable energy targets and advocated for the inclusion of nuclear power in its energy mix.

India has set ambitious goals for climate action, including reducing emission intensity by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030. The country also aims to generate 50% of its power capacity from non-fossil fuels and increase its carbon sink through additional tree cover. As of March 2024, approximately 45% of India's installed capacity was from non-fossil fuels. India has set a goal of net zero emissions by 2070 and aims to have 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy by 2030. As of now, India has reached roughly half of that goal, around 246 GW, primarily through solar and wind energy. By 2030, India is projected to have 280 GW of solar power and 500 GW of clean energy.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's ambitions in chip manufacturing, space exploration, and electric vehicles at the ET WLF 2025. He mentioned that the first made-in-India chip is expected to be out by the end of the year. In the space sector, Modi noted the increase in space startups, from just one in 2014 to over 300 today, and the establishment of a venture capital fund worth Rs 1000 crore for space startups.

Navi Radjou, a management thinker, suggested that India needs a "frugal economy" model to balance development with ecological limits. This model focuses on B2B resource sharing, distributed manufacturing, and triple regeneration, prioritizing people, places, and the planet. Radjou argued that India cannot pursue hypergrowth like the U.S. nor embrace degrowth, but instead needs a middle path rooted in its own ingenuity and wisdom.

India's actions on climate change are setting an example for other developing economies. The country's decisions will have a significant impact on global emissions, investment flows, and sustainable development outcomes. A well-designed Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) can provide the clarity and confidence that businesses need to invest in clean technologies and align with net-zero targets.