Consider the following statements: Statement I: At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), India refrained from signing the Declaration on Climate and Health. Statement II: The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a binding declaration. Statement III: If India’s health sector is decarbonized, the resilience of its healthcare system may be compromised. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- A.Both Statement II and Statement III are correct and both of them explain Statement I
- B.Both Statement I and Statement II are correct but only one of them explains Statement I
- C.Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
- D.Neither Statement II nor Statement III is correct
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: C. Only one of the Statements II and III is correct and that explains Statement I
India's position at COP28 regarding the Declaration on Climate and Health highlighted concerns about potential impacts on its healthcare system's resilience, particularly in the context of rapid decarbonization pressures. Such declarations are typically non-binding political commitments, and nations may opt out based on strategic national interests and perceived implications for their development pathways and existing infrastructure. The complexity lies in balancing global climate goals with national health security and resource availability.
Source: UPSC gs1 2025