India’s energy sector faces critical challenges in achieving the twin goals of Viksit Bharat (developed India) and Atmanirbharta (self-reliance). Despite the absence of a dedicated energy minister overseeing coal, petroleum, renewables and nuclear energy, a focused policy approach is essential. The emphasis is on aligning national priorities with sustainable development, social inclusiveness and environmental protection while securing energy independence and global cooperation.
Defining Viksit Bharat and Atmanirbharta in Energy
Viksit Bharat means more than economic growth. It includes social inclusion and environmental sustainability in energy policy. Atmanirbharta means self-sufficiency or self-reliance. Self-sufficiency is a strict goal of producing all energy consumed domestically. India’s petroleum self-sufficiency has declined from 70% in the 1970s to 15% . Coal self-sufficiency is achievable due to large deposits but reliance on coal conflicts with environmental goals. Self-reliance is broader. It means securing access to affordable, clean energy through national and international partnerships, especially for critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, lithium, copper and rare earths.
Global Energy Context and Challenges
The world is nearing an ecological crisis with global warming surpassing 1.5°C in 2024. International climate efforts have largely failed, yet collaboration is vital. India faces disproportionate impacts from climate change and cannot afford to delay clean development. Global energy trade is increasingly weaponised and inconsistent. For example, US sanctions on Russian oil imports contrast with its purchase of Venezuelan oil. European countries sanction Russia but still buy Russian gas and reopen coal mines. This opportunism complicates energy security and climate goals.
China’s Role in the Green Energy Transition
China dominates the processing of critical minerals essential for clean energy despite raw materials originating in Africa, Latin America, Asia and Australia. This control enables China to resist US tariffs and maintain influence in the global energy transition. India must recognise this dynamic and build strategic capabilities to secure supply chains for minerals and metals critical to renewable energy technologies.
Policy Recommendations for India’s Energy Future
1. Enact an Energy Atmanirbharta Act to legally support self-reliance goals. 2. Establish strategic reserves for critical minerals similar to petroleum stockpiles. 3. Invest heavily in acquiring and managing international energy assets, including minerals. 4. Boost public investment in research and development through public-private partnerships to encourage innovation. 5. Simplify regulatory frameworks, improve access to land, capital and water, ensure contract sanctity, and modernise workforce skills focusing on renewables.
Questions for UPSC:
- Taking example of India’s energy sector, discuss the challenges and strategies for achieving energy self-reliance in developing countries.
- Examine the impact of global climate change negotiations on national energy policies. How should countries balance development and environmental sustainability?
- Analyse the geopolitical implications of China’s dominance in the supply chain of critical minerals necessary for renewable energy technologies and its effect on global energy security.
- Critically discuss the role of public-private partnerships in driving technological innovation in the energy sector with examples from India and abroad.
