Mission LiFE

5.1 Genesis and Launch

Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) was launched by Prime Minister Modi during a side-event at COP26 in Glasgow on 1 November 2021. It was formally established as a government programme and received a significant global push during India's G20 Presidency (2023).

The mission was formally launched as a global movement on 5 June 2022 (World Environment Day) at Vadnagar, Gujarat — PM Modi's birthplace. The LiFE logo is a leaf inside a globe, symbolising sustainable living within planetary limits.

Core Philosophy

LiFE argues that the current global climate crisis is driven by consumption patterns — especially of the wealthy Global North. Individual behaviour change, scaled globally, can significantly reduce emissions without requiring massive policy changes. This is a "circular economy" approach replacing the "linear economy" (take-make-waste).

Key Contrast

• Old model: Take → Make → Use → Dispose (linear, wasteful)
• LiFE model: Reduce → Reuse → Recycle (circular, sustainable)

5.2 LiFE's Framework

"Pro-Planet People" Concept

LiFE calls on individuals to make mindful choices that reduce environmental impact. The goal is to mobilise 1 billion+ people as pro-planet agents globally by 2028.

Seven Key Behaviours and 75 Actions

Behaviour Category	Example Actions
1. Energy	Switch to LED bulbs; set AC at 24°C (saves 6% energy per degree); solar panels
2. Water	Fix leaks; use water-efficient fixtures; rainwater harvesting; reduce shower time
3. Food	Reduce food waste; eat more plant-based foods; avoid single-serving packaging
4. Single-use plastic	Refuse plastic bags; use cloth bags; avoid plastic straws; plastic-free kitchens
5. Waste	Segregate waste; compost organic; e-waste at authorised collection centres
6. E-waste	Responsible disposal of electronics; buy certified refurbished goods
7. Healthy lifestyles	Active transport (cycle, walk); public transport; yoga and traditional practices

India's LiFE Actions

• Ban on single-use plastic — India banned 19 single-use plastic items on 1 July 2022
• International Day for Zero Waste (30 March) championed by India at UNGA
• COP28: India pushed LiFE framework into COP28 outcome text
• G20 New Delhi Declaration: LiFE referenced as part of the sustainable consumption framework

5.3 LiFE's Significance for RPSC Exam

Why LiFE Matters for RPSC

1. Explicitly mentioned in the RPSC 2026 syllabus under Topic 110
2. Demonstrates India's climate leadership through a "value-based" (not purely regulatory) approach
3. Connects Gandhian principles ("live simply so others may simply live") with modern climate science
4. Championed during India's G20 presidency — connecting Topics 108, 109, and 110

RPSC Question Angles

• What is Mission LiFE? Who launched it, when, and where?
• How does LiFE differ from regulatory climate policy?
• What are the 7 behaviour categories?
• How does LiFE embody India's "Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam" approach?

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