Navigating the Nexus: Sikkim's Strategic Importance in the Face of Climate Change Challenges

AISHWARYA SHARMA SONIA SHUKLA RAJIB DEB PRIYADARSHINI ALOK

Sikkim has been a proactive state in tackling climate change. The first move began with organic farming in 2003. Honourable Prime Minister, designated Sikkim as India's first wholly organic state in January 2016. 

However, Sikkim is also a state of strategic importance to India’s security concerns. This is because it shares borders with three countries: China, Nepal, and Bhutan. It also connects the Indian mainland to the North-Eastern states. 

Despite its small size, the impacts of climate change in Sikkim resonate globally. The loss of biodiversity, melting glaciers, and changing weather patterns not only affects the local ecosystems and communities but also have broader implications for regional and global climate systems.

Recently, Climate change, coupled with rising global temperatures, has accelerated glacier melting in the Sikkim Himalayas. As a result, on 3^rd October 2023, a Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) from South Lhonak Lake wreaking havoc in Sikkim. The 1,200 MW Teesta III dam downstream was wrecked, killing 40 people, leaving 76 more missing, and causing major infrastructural damage. 

The retreat of glaciers and changes in precipitation patterns due to climate change affect the availability of water resources as well. This can potentially escalate tensions over water sharing among neighbouring countries, impacting regional geopolitics. The occurrence of such disasters can also disrupt transportation networks, hinder military movements, and destabilize border areas, impacting regional security dynamics and necessitating coordinated responses.

Sikkim's economy is heavily reliant on agriculture and tourism. These sectors are acutely susceptible to climate change impacts such as crop failures, reduced water availability, and damage to infrastructure. As a result, it becomes imperative to reduce Green House Gas (GHG) emissions. 

According to the State's greenhouse gas (GHG) emission inventory, the transport sector accounts for 61% of the total GHG emissions. To Curb this the Sikkim Government has recently unveiled its Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy.  

This is a welcome step as it also develops new employment opportunities, in addition to mitigating GHG emissions. Sikkim's Electric Vehicle Policy has three primary goals: First, to facilitate transition of the government's conventional vehicle fleets to electric cars. Second, encourage eco-tourism through green mobility, and third, establish an environment conducive to the establishment of the electric vehicle ecosystem. 

The policy also enables creation of an "Electric Vehicle Cell" for operational monitoring and a "State Electric Vehicle Board" to ensure successful policy implementation. It provides incentives such as removing registration fees and road taxes for electric cars, lowering extra taxes for non-commercial EVs, and offering a full exemption for commercial EVs.

With only 19 EVs registered till date, the execution of the present EV regulation would be insufficient to produce significant momentum in EV adoption within the state. This emphasizes the need for a reconstruction of the current policy framework to encourage EV adoption.

Following levers can spur consumer interest:

Policy Levers:

First, the policy should include a stated fleet conversion target within a set timeline. Second, the policy should include purchasing incentives to encourage electric vehicle adoption. Third, policy should suggest business models for charging infrastructure to encourage private sector investment. Furthermore, the policy might commit to building Low Emission Zones (LEZ) in important tourist locations, demonstrating a commitment to technology breakthroughs while also promoting environmental stewardship. Simplifying monitoring by forming a single committee with varied stakeholders will improve policy implementation. Additionally, measures for talent development, startup support, and demand generation methods across segments would improve the regulatory framework. It is also suggested that installation of EV charging Infrastructure needs to be integrated with Energy Conservation Building Code and Byelaws. 

Recycling Initiatives:

The solar-powered EV charging infrastructure needs to be promoted. Enabling circular economy by battery disposal, with paying a remunerated price for recycled materials will improve environmental sustainability. 

Learnings from other States:

Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, and Telangana have all enacted comprehensive EV legislations, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to encouraging sustainable transportation networks. Himachal Pradesh's goal of 15% EV registrations by 2025, along with a variety of fiscal and non-financial incentives, demonstrates their dedication to accessibility, convenience, and job growth. Similarly, Haryana's emphasis on standardizing charging infrastructure and encouraging manufacturers is consistent with creating a favourable climate for EV adoption, aided by power tariff reductions and skill development efforts. Telangana's proactive initiatives, such as significant exemptions and support for research and innovation, show a forward-thinking approach to long-term EV growth, notably by encouraging battery reuse and supporting sector-specific startup enterprises. Overall, these states demonstrate a rationale driven strategy, incorporating regulatory frameworks, purchase incentives, and infrastructure development to propel the transition towards electric mobility.

As per Sikkim State Climate Action Plan, EVs are a possible alternative in coming future due to significant hydropower resources and low electricity costs. Recognizing a lack of a charging station network remains a key hurdle to the state's broad adoption of electric vehicles. Finally, it is critical to recognize that sustainable development necessitates ongoing efforts and collaboration among all stakeholders. The success of this strategy will be dependent on more inclusive frameworks, effective implementation, frequent assessments, and a continuous conversation between the government, industry players, and the public. As the state welcomes electric vehicles, it not only transforms its transportation sector but also paves the road for a better, more ecologically conscious future.

Thus, Sikkim’s EV policy measures can foster goodwill and enhance diplomatic relations among countries in the region, contributing to overall stability and security.

(Aishwarya Sharma is Sikkim State Coordinator (E- Mobility) at International Institute for Energy Conservation (IIEC). The views are strictly personal and do not reflect that of their organisation)