Balancing Carbon Emissions to Achieve Sustainable Growth: A Case Study of India’s Transition Toward a Low-Carbon Economy

India, the world’s third-largest carbon emitter, maintains comparatively low per capita emissions. This study examines its 2014–2023 low-carbon transition through analysis of emission trends, policy frameworks, and sectoral case studies covering energy, transport, industry, agriculture, and waste management at national and city levels. While per capita CO2 emissions increased by 24%, emission intensity per ₹1 lakh GDP declined by 27%, demonstrating economic decoupling. Rapid solar expansion (>2280%) and energy sector reforms contributed over 70% of intensity reduction. Regression analysis (R2 > 0.98) confirms robust progress toward Paris Agreement targets. Inclusive, strategic policies are essential to sustain low-carbon growth alongside development.