In Focus by The Hindu Did COP30 deliver on the expectations?
Nov 28, 2025
Zerin Osho, Director of the India Programme at the Institute for Governance and Sustainable Development, dives into the outcomes of COP30. He discusses the concerning omission of 'fossil fuels' from the final text and criticizes the weak financial commitments. Despite this, he highlights some hopeful voluntary plans to transition away from fossil fuels and combat deforestation. Zerin also critiques India's diplomatic strategy while celebrating its renewable energy progress, emphasizing the complexities of adaptation finance versus mitigation.
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Multilateralism Preserved, Action Missing
- COP30 preserved multilateralism but failed on concrete climate action and agreements.
- Zerin Osho says geopolitical fractures and lack of leadership weakened outcomes.
Fossil Fuels Wiped From The Text
- The final text at COP30 omitted any mention of fossil fuels and barely referenced deforestation.
- Osho attributes this to oil and gas lobby influence and petrostates blocking language on fossil fuels.
Frame Achievements In Negotiations
- India should emphasise its renewable achievements during diplomacy rather than oppose fossil fuel language outright.
- Osho advises better diplomatic framing to highlight India's early attainment of NDC targets.