Relevance for UPSC: GS II (International Relations), GS III (Energy & Climate Change)
Source: International Solar Alliance documents; Ministry of External Affairs

Context

India has reaffirmed its commitment to the International Solar Alliance (ISA) despite the United States’ decision to withdraw, reflecting continuity in India’s climate diplomacy amid shifting global priorities.

About the International Solar Alliance

The International Solar Alliance is a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation, jointly launched by India and France at COP21, Paris (2015) and formally established in 2016. Headquartered in Gurugram, it has over 120 member countries, mainly from the tropical region.

Objectives

• Mobilise USD 1 trillion for solar energy by 2030
• Reduce cost of finance and technology barriers
• Support solar deployment in developing countries, especially Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States

Significance of U.S. Withdrawal

The withdrawal reduces U.S. participation but does not affect ISA’s legal or operational continuity, as it is a multilateral treaty organisation.

India’s Strategic Relevance

• Reinforces South–South cooperation
• Supports India’s targets of 500 gigawatts non-fossil capacity by 2030
• Positions India as a global climate leader

One line wrap: ISA promotes affordable and scalable solar energy as a tool for climate action and development.

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the International Solar Alliance:

1. It is a treaty-based intergovernmental organisation.
2. Its membership is restricted only to countries between the Tropics.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: (a)