Consider the following statements : Statement I: At the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28), India refrained from signing the 'Declaration on Climate and Health'. Statement II : The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a binding declaration; and if signed, it becomes mandatory to decarbonize health sector. Statement III : If India's health sector is decarbonized, the resilience of its health-care system may be compromised. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
Explanation:
Statement I: India, along with other major emitters like China and the US, did not sign the COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health. This statement is factually correct. Statement II: The COP28 Declaration on Climate and Health is a *non-binding* political declaration. It aims to raise awareness and encourage action but does not create mandatory obligations for signatory countries. Therefore, the claim that it is a 'binding declaration' and 'mandatory to decarbonize health sector' if signed, is incorrect. Statement III: India's decision not to sign was partly driven by concerns that a rapid and mandatory decarbonization of its health sector could compromise the resilience, accessibility, and affordability of healthcare services for its vast population, especially in a developing context. This statement accurately reflects India's position and is correct. Explanation: Statement I is correct. Statement II is incorrect. Statement III is correct. Statement III provides a key reason for India's decision to refrain from signing the declaration, thus explaining Statement I. Therefore, only Statement III is correct and explains Statement I.