There has been broad agreement over the fundamentals of Climate Change in mainstream scientific circles for some time now. Climate Change is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters the composition of the global atmosphere. And its consequences for the world we live in will be disastrous, if left unchecked.
"Convenient Action- Gujarat's Response to Challenges of Climate Change", written by the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Narendra Modi, is an illustrative book containing successful examples of the policy and programmatic initiatives for dealing with Climate Change which he has undertaken during the last few years in the State of Gujarat, India. The book explicitly documents the development philosophy that forms the core of his public policy and how it has contributed to both adaptation and mitigation of Climate Change.
In a field more marked by debates and discourses, the book stands distinct in its emphasis on action and how a conscious Climate Change Policy can bring in visible results. The book thus caters to a wide cross section of readers which includes policy makers, scientists, research scholars, students, writers and the general public at large.
"I would call this unique compendium of action a Green Autobiography of Narendra Modi who has shown a definite path and determined strategy to meet the Challenges of Climate Change."--- Steve Howard, CEO, The Climate Group
Narendra Damodardas Modi Gujarati pronunciation: [ˈnəɾendrə dɑmodəɾˈdɑs ˈmodiː](born 17 September 1950, is an Indian politician serving as the 14th and current Prime Minister of India since 2014. He was the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2001 to 2014 and is the Member of Parliament for Varanasi. Modi is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist volunteer organisation. He is the first prime minister outside of the Indian National Congress to win two consecutive terms with a full majority and the second to complete five years in office after Atal Bihari Vajpayee. --from Wikipedia
"Another book on climate change!", surely many of us would lament. Understandably, this might be the feeling of ardent audience surfeited by the flooding of literary circles by books on global warming, climate change, pollution, deforestation and a never ending list of issues related to environment.
While the situation is a positive indication of how serious the problem is for all humanity, with majority of the books on the subject speaking almost same language readers are bound to lose interest. “Convenient Action: Gujarat's Response to Challenges of Climate Change” talks about how the resolve of people of a state, to reverse and rectify environmental problems, when supported by visionary leadership can deliver unprecedented results. This book by Narendra Modi, a path-breaking leader, is a compilation of what has been done to reverse impact of climate change. The book is a pleasant change for all those who were reading & re-reading same story again and again including environmental issues & problems, causes & effects and what needs to be done. Another very evident fact, which has made this book an excellent read, is that the book is more of a master class from a practitioner rather than a passive discussion and commentary by those who don’t need to execute their own suggestions and walk their own roadmaps.
Narendra Modi, who is Chief Minister of Gujarat by designation and Chief Executive Officer of Gujarat by actions, offers something entirely new to the audience, presented in an easily readable manner and creates immediate connect with the reader. Although Modi does address some questions raised and dealt with elsewhere, he adds the most significant topic of all - best practices, actions which had already benefited millions in Gujarat and can be easily replicated across the world.
The book is a compendium of actions undertaken in Gujarat during the last decade which have positively contributed to environment and sustainability. He has elaborated on how the state has kept a constant emphasis on mitigation initiatives, exploiting the clean and green energy potential through promotion of wind and solar energy and state-wide gas grid. As a policy maker, Modi has extensive experience of identifying successful policies which can have long term beneficial outcome, by creating this book he has created a reference work which can guide those who are genuinely concerned by Climate Change issues and are serious about resolving them.
Modi has once again displayed his keenness to break conventional mindset by first providing an exemplary leadership to make Gujarat a carbon-neutral state through sustainable development and saving wastage of energy at different levels and then authoring a book which provides excellent insights of how he achieved such feet. As Modi is the second political leader in the world after Al Gore, who authored Inconvenient Truth, to have written a complete book on climate change but as far as the knowledge mass is concerned Convenient Action easily outclasses Inconvenient Truth.
Although this is not the first book by Modi, who is a well published author with substantial fan following, Convenient Action is his first book in English. While many of his previous books are available in translated versions, with his first English book Narendra Modi has impressed a sizable number of English reading audiences. I, myself being an author with environmentalist inclination would surely recommend everyone to read this book, which is a “Convenient Action” which they should take if they want to see a prosperous future for mankind.
This article is written by Social Technopreneur, Deepak Pareek. Deepak is an author, columnist, speaker and environmentalist. He can be reached at deepak@deepakpareek.com
Nice book to read and to inspire. Necessary to understand the importance of climate. Specifically speaking at the scale of Government. It is available online free of charge on.
In "Convenient Action: Gujarat's Response to Challenges of Climate Change," Narendra Modi, then the Chief Minister of Gujarat, presents a compelling case for proactive and practical solutions to the pressing issue of climate change. This book goes beyond mere rhetoric, showcasing concrete examples of policy and programmatic initiatives implemented in Gujarat to address this global challenge!
The book opens by establishing the scientific consensus surrounding climate change and its potentially devastating consequences. It then dives into the specific context of Gujarat, highlighting its unique vulnerabilities and the need for tailored solutions. Modi outlines his development philosophy, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and environmental responsibility as core principles.
The heart of the book lies in its detailed description of successful initiatives undertaken in Gujarat. From renewable energy projects and water conservation programs to green initiatives in agriculture and urban planning, "Convenient Action" offers a comprehensive roadmap for climate action. Each initiative is presented with a clear focus on its impact and potential for replication, providing valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners globally.
One of the book's most significant strengths is its emphasis on action. In a field often dominated by theoretical debates, "Convenient Action" offers a refreshing dose of pragmatism. Modi demonstrates how a conscious climate change policy can translate into tangible results, inspiring optimism and fostering a sense of agency in the face of a seemingly insurmountable challenge.
The book's audience is broad, catering to policymakers, scientists, researchers, students, and the general public. While technical terms are used, the writing remains accessible and engaging, ensuring that the message resonates with a diverse readership.
Steve Howard, CEO of The Climate Group, aptly describes the book as "a Green Autobiography of Narendra Modi," highlighting the personal conviction and strategic vision that underpin the initiatives presented. "Convenient Action" is not merely a report of achievements; it is a testament to Modi's leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability.
While the book primarily focuses on the successes of Gujarat's climate action plan, it does not shy away from acknowledging the challenges and limitations faced. This transparency adds credibility to the narrative and allows for a more nuanced understanding of the complex issues involved.
In conclusion, "Convenient Action: Gujarat's Response to Challenges of Climate Change" is a valuable contribution to the global discussion on climate change. It offers a practical and inspiring model for action, demonstrating how effective leadership and a commitment to sustainable practices can make a significant difference in the fight against this existential threat. Whether you are a seasoned policymaker or a concerned citizen, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking practical solutions to the climate crisis!