As an Indian citizen, I feel proud when an international organization spontaneously praises us for our policy. Very recently, one such instance has been created centering around our power transition plan. When most of the countries in the world, including some superpowers, are rudderless on how to systematically approach towards Net Zero, India has taken up a well-planned long-term approach.
According to the recent Asia-Pacific Climate Report of Asian Development Bank (ADB), with a bold net-zero target set for 2070, India is reimagining its approach to energy. As per ADB’s observation, India is shifting its focus from an unsustainable dependence on fossil fuel subsidies to fostering clean energy. Guided by a ‘remove, target, and shift’ strategy, India steadily whittled down its fossil fuel support, opening doors to new investments in solar power, electric vehicles, and a stronger energy grid. India’s resolve in reforming fuel subsidies has proven transformative, slashing subsidies by a striking margin between 2014 and 2018.
This shift was no small feat. It was achieved through careful steps, including the gradual phasing out of petrol and diesel subsidies from 2010 to 2014, followed by measured tax hikes on these fuels up to 2017. These moves, though bold, were made to create fiscal breathing room for renewable projects, allowing the government to channel funds into clean energy initiatives at an unprecedented scale. With subsidies for solar parks, distributed energy solutions, and state-owned enterprises now steadily rising, India’s path forward reflects its purpose and commitment to clean power, setting a strong example for others looking to shift toward a more resilient energy future. Obviously, it’s a great achievement of our union government.
Publisher & Editor-In-Chief
