India has rapidly advanced in green hydrogen technology in 2025. The country aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel energy capacity by 2030. This progress is driven by government missions, industry collaborations, and innovation hubs. India’s commitment to green hydrogen is a key part of its strategy for carbon neutrality and energy self-reliance.
Green Hydrogen and National Missions
India launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission and National Biofuels Mission to boost clean energy production. These initiatives promote green hydrogen and biohydrogen technologies. The government supports research, innovation clusters, and green energy corridors. Andhra Pradesh’s green hydrogen policy, known as the Amaravati Declaration, is very important in developing green hydrogen valleys and skilling ecosystems.
Industry and Innovation Partnerships
Leading organisations like JNCASR, BARC, BHEL, and Reliance Industries are developing indigenous green hydrogen technologies. Collaborations with global companies such as Hyundai and start-ups like Ohmium accelerate progress. Ohmium’s electrolyser gigafactory in Bengaluru is a landmark in domestic manufacturing. The NTPC’s NETRA zero-emission campus and Hyundai’s HTWO Innovation Centre demonstrate practical applications of green hydrogen.
Green Hydrogen in Mobility and Infrastructure
India’s green hydrogen journey includes fuel-cell buses, hydrogen stations, and hydrogen-powered trains. Indian Railways’ Hydrogen for Heritage initiative aims to introduce hydrogen trains for zero-emission transport. The two-wheeler segment is targeted with Swadeshi hydrogen-fuelled e-bikes, supported by government and MSMEs. These efforts contribute to cleaner urban mobility and reduced carbon emissions.
Research and Technological Advances
Research institutions like IIT Delhi, JNCASR, and BARC lead green hydrogen innovation. Technologies include piezo-catalytic water splitting and the Iodine-Sulfur production process. Advanced hydrogen detection sensors using nano devices have been developed by DRDO and IIT Delhi. Nitte Meenakshi Institute’s seawater electrolysis system powers green hydrogen for drones, denoting diverse applications.
Skill Development and Capacity Building
The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, with MNRE, is creating training programmes for green hydrogen technicians. National Skill Qualification Framework courses and PMKVY 4.0 training enhance workforce readiness. Incubation centres and start-up launch pads encourage innovation and entrepreneurship. These initiatives build a skilled talent pool for India’s green energy sector.
Policy Support and Global Recognition
India’s Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme ensures transparency and market credibility. Financial institutions such as the World Bank and IREDA support green credit lines. Industry bodies like the Hydrogen Association of India and GH2 India promote sector growth. India’s green energy efforts fulfil Paris Agreement commitments and strengthen its global leadership in renewable energy.
Future Prospects and Ecosystem Development
India plans to establish green innovation clusters, global capability centres, and green skill programmes. The government encourages experiential learning, apprenticeships, and project-based training. These efforts aim to create a Viksit Green Bharat by 2047, integrating green hydrogen into the broader energy and industrial ecosystem.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the role of green hydrogen in achieving India’s climate commitments and energy security by 2030.
- Underline the challenges and opportunities in developing a skilled workforce for emerging green technologies in India.
- Critically analyse the impact of public-private partnerships on the growth of renewable energy sectors, with suitable examples from India.
- Estimate the significance of technological innovation and research institutions in advancing India’s green hydrogen economy and sustainable development.
