Experts from diverse sectors explored solutions to global challenges, emphasizing climate resilience, green finance, and the transformative potential of technology in agriculture. The dialogue, held under the Viksit Bharat (Developed India) theme, showcased India’s vision of balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility. This discussion was a key highlight of the SABERA 2024 held in New Delhi last week, where panelists delved into sustainable innovations, the role of green energy, and the integration of advanced technologies to drive progress in agriculture and other critical sectors.
The SABER Awards 2024 (Social and Business Enterprise Responsible Awards) celebrated India’s progress toward sustainable development under the theme Viksit Bharat (Developed India). The event honored individuals and organizations driving impactful change across sectors, highlighting collaborative efforts by corporations, educational institutions, and grassroots initiatives to advance the country’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Panel Discussion on Climate Finance at COP29
A major highlight of SABERA 2024 was the Viksit Bharat panel discussion, which brought together leaders from critical sectors—Banking, Finance, Technology, Energy, and Media. Notable panelists included Jagannath Sahoo, CEO of SBI Foundation; Jaideep Karnik, Head of Content at Amar Ujjala; Anirban Mukerji, a technology enthusiast; and Ashish Gupta from BPCL. The session was moderated by Suparnaa Chadda of Simply Suparnaa Media Network.
The discussion addressed India’s stance on climate finance during COP29. India rejected a proposal to increase global climate finance contributions from $100 billion to $300 billion, arguing it fell short of addressing the country’s dual needs—development and climate resilience. Panelists emphasized that developed nations, historically responsible for the majority of emissions, must increase their contributions.
Experts underscored the importance of international cooperation, technology transfer, and balancing economic growth with climate action. India’s move reflects the contrasting realities between developed nations’ environmental footprints and the energy security requirements of emerging economies like India.
Technology Driving Social Impact
The panel also spotlighted innovations addressing global challenges. Anirban Mukerji shared insights on an innovative program by the international nonprofit Global Fishing Watch, which is making significant strides in combating illegal and unregulated fishing worldwide. Using remote sensing, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced technologies like the Automatic Identification System (AIS), the program tracks large fishing vessels across the globe. However, tracking small-scale fishing vessels posed a challenge, as these boats often lack tracking devices.
To address this, Global Fishing Watch provided mobile phones to fishers, using AI to track their movements and identify overfishing areas. The public map, accessible on Google, allows users to view fishing activities and violations of marine protected areas. Notably, the program revealed illegal overfishing by Chinese fishing boats in North Korean waters, which forced local North Korean fishers to venture farther, resulting in tragic deaths.
In India, another successful initiative harnesses technology to support local fishers along the coast. In collaboration with the Indian National Center for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) and the MS Swaminathan Research Foundation (MSSRF), a system was developed to provide real-time data on fishing grounds and weather conditions. This system helps fishers navigate safely, protecting them from adverse weather events and improving their fishing practices. The late Professor MS Swaminathan, a pioneer in agricultural science, championed the idea of bridging lab-to-field knowledge, a philosophy that also guided this program.
These efforts showcase how technology, particularly AI, the Internet of Things, and mobile platforms, can drive social impact by addressing global challenges, while also safeguarding lives and livelihoods.
India’s Green Finance Commitment
A key takeaway of the panel discussion at SABERA 2024 was India’s push to scale up green finance. The SBI Foundation aims to increase its green financing from 2% to 10% of its domestic lending portfolio—amounting to nearly INR5 trillion. This aligns with India’s larger climate strategy, reinforcing its leadership in global sustainability discussions.
Panelists also addressed challenges in renewable energy adoption, particularly the reliance on international technology for solar energy, and called for enhanced domestic innovation to achieve energy security.
CSR and Media’s Role in Driving Change
Discussions highlighted the evolving role of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in India, with companies like BPCL leading initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, including increasing ethanol content in fuel and transitioning toward renewable energy. The SBI Foundation also showcased its inclusivity programs, such as employing Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) and promoting assistive technologies.
Also read: Farmveda, Dabur India Recognized at SABERA 2024 for Contribution in Agri & Rural Development
The media’s role in shaping public discourse was another key focus. Panelists critiqued the lack of consistent coverage on climate issues, urging media organizations to engage the public in meaningful conversations that balance entertainment with pressing societal challenges.
Discussions extended to grassroots sustainability solutions and the potential of technologies like green hydrogen and AI in addressing sustainability challenges. However, experts noted the high energy demands of AI, particularly in data centers, and stressed the need for cleaner energy sources to support such advancements.
SABERA 2024 underscored the interconnectedness of philanthropy, CSR, technological innovation, and media’s influence in driving sustainable development. Panelists advocated for collaboration across sectors, innovative solutions to societal challenges, and a commitment to domestic innovation to position India as a global leader in sustainability.
