India and Japan Launch Operational Manual for the Joint Crediting Mechanism

Key Highlights:

• India and Japan launched the Operational Manual for the Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM) on September 30, 2026.
• The manual was jointly launched by Japan's Ambassador to India and the then Secretary (MoEFCC).
• The JCM aims to promote advanced low-carbon technologies and mobilize climate finance in India.
• It facilitates technology cooperation and supports high-integrity emission reductions and removals.

Detailed Insights:

• The JCM contributes to sustainable development in India and strengthens confidence and transparency in international carbon markets.
• Its launch signifies a major step in operationalizing bilateral cooperation under Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement.
• The manual establishes a clear procedural framework for implementing JCM activities, covering the entire project cycle.
• This follows the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) in August 2025 and adoption of the Rule of Implementation (RoI) in June 2026.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM): A bilateral carbon credit mechanism promoting low-carbon technologies and sustainable development in partner countries.
• Article 6.2 of the Paris Agreement: Allows countries to cooperatively achieve their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) through internationally transferred mitigation outcomes.
• Carbon Markets: Systems where carbon credits, representing greenhouse gas emission reductions, are bought and sold to meet emission reduction targets.