Why Are India’s Global Biofuels Alliance and CDRI Crucial?

Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA): Fueling a Greener Future
Launched during India’s G20 presidency in 2023, the GBA promotes international collaboration to scale up sustainable biofuels, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and support clean energy transitions.
Key Highlights:
Membership: 29 countries and 14 organizations (as of July 2025), including the US, Brazil, and UAE.


Focus Areas:
Expanding non-grain-based biofuels (e.g., agricultural waste) to avoid food security conflicts.
Reducing transportation sector emissions alongside electric vehicles and hydrogen fuels.
Whitepaper Insight: A 2025 GBA report highlights India’s potential in the $500 billion global biofuels market.
Why It Matters: Biofuels cut greenhouse gas emissions by 50–90% compared to fossil fuels, aligning with the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero goals.


Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI): Building Climate-Proof Systems
Initiated by PM Modi in 2019, CDRI safeguards infrastructure (roads, power grids, housing) against climate disasters through global knowledge-sharing.


Key Goals:
Protect $10 trillion in global infrastructure investments by 2050.
Support Small Island Nations (IRIS Program): Helps vulnerable regions combat rising sea levels and cyclones.
10-Point Agenda: Includes urban resilience, early warning systems, and Africa-focused projects.
Exam Relevance: CDRI’s multi-country partnerships exemplify India’s soft power—a likely topic for UPSC mains (GS-II/III) or NID/NIFT essays.


Other India-Led Global Initiatives
International Solar Alliance (ISA): 106 member nations; aims for $1 trillion in solar investments by 2030.
International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA): Protects tigers, lions, and cheetahs across 16 range countries.
Green Credits Initiative: Rewards eco-actions like wasteland reforestation, distinct from carbon credits.


Sample Q&A for Competitive Exams
Q: Which countries spearheaded the Global Biofuels Alliance?
A: India, the US, and Brazil.
Q: What is CDRI’s primary objective?
A: To enhance infrastructure resilience against climate disasters.
Q: Name India’s initiative for small island nations under CDRI.
A: Infrastructure for Resilient Island States (IRIS).
Q: How does GBA promote sustainable biofuels?
A: By supporting non-grain feedstock and global trade in biofuels.
Q: Which exam had a question on the International Solar Alliance?
A: UPSC Prelims 2016.