Q1. “Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”.Comment on the progress made in India in this regard.

Model Answer:

Introduction

Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Body

India has made substantial progress in this regard:

  1. Electrification Initiatives: The Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana (Saubhagya) has successfully provided electricity to over 28 million households since 2017, significantly improving energy access, especially in rural areas. Electrification enhances quality of life, enabling better education and healthcare services.
  2. Renewable Energy Development: India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030. The government has launched several initiatives, including the National Solar Mission, which has resulted in substantial solar power installations. India ranks among the top countries globally in renewable energy capacity, reflecting its commitment to sustainability.
  3. Energy Efficiency Programs: The Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) scheme promotes energy efficiency in industries, aiming to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions. Additionally, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has implemented star rating systems for appliances to promote energy-efficient products.
  4. International Cooperation: India actively participates in global initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), fostering collaboration with other nations to share knowledge and technology for sustainable energy solutions.
  5. Grid Infrastructure Improvement: The Smart Grid initiative aims to modernise the power distribution network, enhancing reliability and efficiency in energy delivery. Investment in grid infrastructure also helps in integrating renewable energy sources, which is crucial for sustainable energy development.
  6. Financial Support and Subsidies: The government provides various financial incentives, subsidies, and support schemes to promote renewable energy projects, such as the Solar Rooftop Scheme, which encourages homeowners and businesses to adopt solar energy.
  7. Focus on Clean Cooking Solutions: The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) aims to provide clean cooking fuel (LPG) to rural households, reducing dependence on traditional biomass fuels and improving health outcomes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India’s advancements in energy access and sustainability are crucial for achieving the SDGs. These initiatives not only improve living standards but also contribute to environmental sustainability and economic growth, paving the way for a greener future.

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