New Delhi, Feb 11 : With confidence and conviction, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s central role in powering both domestic and global economic growth as he addressed the India Energy Week at Yashobhumi. The event, which drew prominent delegates and stakeholders from around the world, aimed to promote strategic discussions and collaborations to reshape the future of energy.
“I extend my greetings to all the delegates and partners from across the country and the world who have gathered here at Yashobhumi. You are not just participants in Energy Week; you are an important part of India’s energy ambitions,” said PM Modi. His words resonated with the theme of partnership and shared responsibility as India and the world face a changing energy landscape.
He emphasized that India is not only building its own growth path but is a crucial contributor to the broader global economy. “Today, every expert in the world is saying that the 21st century is India’s century. India is not only driving its own growth, but also global growth, and our energy sector is playing a critical role in that journey,” PM Modi declared.
Building India’s Energy Future: The Five Pillars of Progress
In his speech, PM Modi laid out a clear vision for India’s energy sector, highlighting five foundational pillars that will shape the country’s progress: abundant natural resources, world-class talent, strong economic fundamentals, political stability, and strategic geographical positioning. All of this, he added, is underpinned by a steadfast commitment to global sustainability.
“The next two decades are crucial for us to achieve the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ — a fully developed India,” he said, emphasizing that key milestones would be achieved within the next five years. “Many of our energy goals align with the global sustainability deadlines of 2030.”
Among India’s key energy targets, he highlighted:
• Expanding India’s energy capacity by 500 gigawatts
• Achieving net-zero carbon emissions for Indian Railways
• Becoming a global leader in green hydrogen production
While acknowledging that these goals are ambitious, PM Modi pointed to India’s achievements over the past decade as proof of the country’s potential to deliver. “In the last ten years, India has become the fifth-largest economy in the world, doubled its solar power generation, and emerged as the third-largest solar power-producing country. Our non-fossil fuel capacity has tripled,” he noted.
Sustainability: India’s Commitment to Global Environmental Goals
The Prime Minister underscored India’s commitment to sustainability, highlighting its leadership in meeting environmental targets. He said India was the first country to meet the Paris G20 agreement goals, achieving a 90 percent ethanol blending rate and making great strides in the development of biofuels.
India’s biofuels industry, he said, is poised for rapid expansion, with 500 million metric tons of sustainable feedstock readily available. PM Modi also highlighted the success of the Global Biofuels Alliance, an initiative established during India’s G20 presidency. The alliance now includes 28 nations and 12 international organizations, all working together to transform waste into valuable energy resources.
“The Global Biofuels Alliance is not just a policy initiative—it is an effort to convert waste into wealth, creating a circular economy that benefits people and the planet,” he explained.
Reforms to Attract Energy Investment
PM Modi elaborated on key government initiatives designed to unlock India’s hydrocarbon potential and attract investments. Among the reforms he mentioned were the Open Acreage License Policy (OALP), the opening of India’s exclusive economic zone for energy exploration, and the implementation of a single-window clearance system to fast-track projects.
“These reforms are designed to bring in both domestic and international investments, but they also aim to empower ordinary families, farmers, and small businesses to become energy producers themselves,” he said.
Empowering Communities: The PM Suryodaya Mukt Bijli Yojana
In a move to decentralize energy production, India recently launched the PM Suryodaya Mukt Bijli Yojana. This initiative goes beyond producing energy—it is a tool to empower communities, especially rural families and farmers, to contribute to India’s energy future. Under the scheme, households and small enterprises are encouraged to generate solar power, creating local jobs, fostering new skills, and boosting local economies.
“This is not just a program for energy production,” PM Modi explained. “It is a movement to build skills, provide employment, and create opportunities for families across the country to participate in the nation’s development.”
A Call for Innovation and Collaboration
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister expressed optimism about the impact of India Energy Week. “India is committed to energy solutions that not only drive economic growth but also respect and protect nature. I am confident that the discussions and collaborations at this event will spark new ideas and innovations that can guide us toward a sustainable energy future.”
PM Modi’s vision is clear—India’s energy ambitions are intertwined with its role on the world stage, making it a key player in addressing global challenges. The progress India has made over the past decade demonstrates its ability to rise to the occasion, and with the collective efforts of stakeholders both at home and abroad, the nation is determined to achieve a future powered by clean, sustainable energy.
As the event concluded, there was a sense of purpose in the air, with delegates and participants echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiment: India’s energy journey is not just about numbers and targets—it is about creating a sustainable and equitable future for the planet.( With inputs from IANS)
