---
title: "Nationally Determined Contribution Definition"
description: "A nationally determined contribution is a country's climate pledge under the Paris Agreement, outlining its emission-reduction commitments."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/nationally-determined-contribution"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- A nationally determined contribution is a country's self-set climate action pledge submitted under the Paris Agreement, detailing emission-reduction and adaptation commitments.
- Are nationally determined contributions legally binding under the Paris Agreement?
- How does the NDC differ from the Kyoto Protocol's approach?
- What is the 'ratchet mechanism' associated with NDCs?
- What are the key features of India's updated 2022 NDC?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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At COP26 in Glasgow (2021), India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the "Panchamrit," subsequently enshrined in India's updated NDC of August 2022 targeting 50% non-fossil power capacity and net-zero emissions by 2070.

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