Zero draft developed by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC)

The Zero draft developed by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) refers to an international legally binding instrument aimed at addressing the issue of plastic pollution. It is an important initiative that seeks to establish a framework to tackle the growing problem of plastic waste and its adverse impacts on the environment.

Statement 1: It is an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution.

This statement is correct. The Zero draft developed by the INC is indeed an international legally binding instrument. The objective of this instrument is to effectively combat plastic pollution by implementing various measures and strategies at the global level. It recognizes the urgent need to address the environmental and health risks associated with plastic waste and seeks to prevent and reduce its generation, promote sustainable consumption and production patterns, and ensure the environmentally sound management of plastic waste.

By establishing a legally binding framework, the instrument aims to encourage countries to take necessary actions to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. It emphasizes the importance of cooperation, technology transfer, capacity building, and financial assistance to support the implementation of effective measures to combat plastic pollution.

Statement 2: India is not a party to the instrument.

This statement is incorrect. India is actively involved in the negotiations and discussions related to the Zero draft developed by the INC. As a responsible member of the global community, India recognizes the significance of addressing the issue of plastic pollution and has been actively participating in international efforts to combat this problem.

India has taken several initiatives at the national level to tackle plastic pollution, including the adoption of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016. The country has also launched campaigns such as the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Campaign) to promote cleanliness and reduce plastic waste.

Given India's commitment towards environmental sustainability and its active participation in global efforts, it is expected that India would be a party to the international instrument once it is finalized and adopted.

In conclusion, the correct answer is option A, as the first statement is correct, while the second statement is incorrect. The Zero draft developed by the INC is an international legally binding instrument to end plastic pollution, and India is actively involved in the negotiations and discussions related to the instrument.