The correct option is C.
Explanation
The Kyoto Protocol is an international treaty that extends the 1992 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) by committing state parties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The timeline of India's involvement is governed by the distinction between the adoption of the treaty and its formal ratification by the domestic government.
- Adoption: The Kyoto Protocol was adopted on 11 December 1997 in Kyoto, Japan.
- India's Ratification: India acceded to the Kyoto Protocol on 26 August 2002. As a developing nation (Non-Annex I country), India was not subject to binding emission reduction targets during the first commitment period but participated through the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
- Entry into Force: The Protocol globally entered into force on 16 February 2005, following the ratification by the Russian Federation.
- Paris Agreement (2015): The year 2015 marks the adoption of the Paris Agreement, which is a separate instrument under the UNFCCC.
Key Takeaway: While the Kyoto Protocol was adopted in 1997, India formally ratified the agreement in 2002, maintaining its status as a Non-Annex I country.