Climate Change Science and Policy: Lessons from India

For more than a decade climate change has been the focus of much research and analysis. Despite the global implications of the problem the majority of research and analysis has involved researchers from industrialized countries. This paper analyzes how climate change research and analysis is performed in India, a major lesser-industrialized country. We explore the factors that play a role in shaping the capability of India to carry out, and respond to, climate change analyses. We also sketch out the links between national research and assessment capability and national policy making and how these links may have evolved and been mobilized in response to the international climate change debate. We also examine the Indian participation in, and perceptions of, the IPCC process. This allows us to reflect on the potential pitfalls for international assessment processes, and on the role that India can play in the global debate on climate change.