The term 'Intended Nationally Determined Contributions' (INDCs) refers to the pledges made by countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change, particularly in the lead-up to the Paris Agreement adopted in 2015. These contributions represent each country's commitment to addressing climate change based on their specific national circumstances and capabilities. The significance of INDCs lies in their role as a basis for international cooperation and accountability, reflecting a collective effort to limit global warming and its impacts, which is crucial for sustainable development, a key theme in UPSC syllabus considering environmental challenges.