Energy independence has become an economic, strategic and geopolitical necessity for India, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh said on Thursday, asserting that the country’s clean energy transition is inseparably linked to self-reliance and global leadership.
Addressing an event in New Delhi, the Minister said India’s move towards diversified and clean energy sources aligns directly with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the country’s expanding role on the world stage. He underlined that the debate over whether to adopt green energy is now redundant, as energy transition is universally recognised as essential for sustainable growth and economic resilience.
Energy transition no longer optional
Dr Jitendra Singh noted that the global consensus has shifted decisively in favour of clean energy, making the transition unavoidable. He observed that if India is to progress economically and strategically, there is no viable alternative to embracing green and clean energy pathways.
He emphasised that reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports strengthens national self-reliance while also preparing the country for inevitable global shifts. According to the Minister, even traditional energy-exporting nations are rapidly diversifying their energy portfolios, making outdated energy models unsustainable in the long term.
Strategic and geopolitical imperatives
Highlighting the geopolitical dimension, Dr Singh explained that energy independence enhances India’s strategic autonomy and global compatibility. Persisting with legacy energy systems, he said, is comparable to clinging to obsolete technology, warning that such approaches would soon become unviable and economically restrictive.
He added that clean energy adoption is no longer driven only by environmental concerns but by hard economic and geopolitical realities, as nations increasingly align energy choices with national security and supply chain stability.
India as a global trendsetter
Dr Jitendra Singh stated that India is no longer a passive participant in global climate and energy discussions but a trendsetter. He pointed out that other countries are increasingly looking to India for direction in areas such as climate action, clean energy solutions and advanced technologies.
He cited India’s achievements in sectors like space exploration and biotechnology, where domestic innovation is contributing to global progress, as evidence of the country’s growing leadership role.
Role of nuclear energy in a clean energy mix
Recalling India’s climate commitments, the Minister referred to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2070 and the government’s resolve to build 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047. He clarified that energy sources should be evaluated based on suitability, reliability and application-specific utility rather than ideological preferences.
While renewable energy will form a substantial part of India’s energy mix, Dr Singh stressed that certain sectors, including data centres, artificial intelligence and advanced computing, require uninterrupted, stable 24×7 power supply. In this context, he highlighted the critical role of nuclear energy in ensuring energy security and reliability.
Towards a hybrid energy model
The Minister said India’s future lies in a hybrid energy model, where renewables, nuclear power, hydrogen and emerging energy solutions work together. He drew parallels with technological evolution, noting that just as artificial intelligence is evolving into a balanced model integrating human intelligence, India’s energy strategy will mature into an integrated and flexible framework.
Such an approach, he said, would allow each energy source to be deployed where it is most cost-effective and efficient, ensuring sustainability without compromising growth.
Public-private collaboration and reforms
Dr Jitendra Singh also highlighted bold reforms undertaken by the government, including opening strategic sectors such as nuclear energy and space to private participation. He said these steps demonstrate the government’s willingness to move beyond the status quo and enable public-private synergy.
Calling for greater trust and collaboration, he urged stakeholders to move beyond silos and scepticism. According to him, national progress depends on collective responsibility, shared purpose and integrated action.
Clean energy as a way of life
Concluding his address, the Minister said that while the initial phase of energy transition presents challenges, India is firmly on the right path under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He asserted that clean energy is no longer confined to policy debates or conferences but is becoming a way of life.
He added that India will not merely follow global trends but will lead the world in clean energy transition through innovation, adaptability and sustained commitment.
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