Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s principal secretary, Dr. PK Mishra, addressed the inaugural session of the international conference on ‘Sustainable Energy Transition – Global Perspective’ organised by Integrated Research and Action for Development (IRADe) on Thursday.
Dr. Mishra described clean energy as a fundamental part of India’s vision for development, stating it is no longer just an energy sector agenda but is deeply linked with overall growth, economic competitiveness, social inclusion, and energy security.
Referring to the Prime Minister’s address during India Energy Week, he said, “The creation of a developed India will be based on clean energy, green growth, and sustainable lifestyles.” He highlighted two key lessons from India’s energy transition.
First, ambitious targets only become meaningful when supported by strong institutional frameworks, continuous financial commitment, and consistent implementation. India has advanced its 2030 goals to be achieved by 2025 and completed 100 gigawatts of solar capacity ahead of schedule, demonstrating policy continuity and institutional strength.
Second, energy transition is most sustainable when it directly benefits the people. Schemes like PM-KUSUM have provided relief to farmers, the PM-Surya Ghar free electricity scheme has helped families, and solar manufacturing along with electric mobility have created employment opportunities. This shows that decarbonisation and development reinforce each other.
Dr. Mishra emphasised energy security, affordable availability, and universal access. He said this transition for the Global South must be just, inclusive, and development-oriented, recognising common but differentiated responsibilities, national circumstances, and ongoing international cooperation. Between 2005 and 2020, India reduced its GDP emission intensity by 36 percent and met Paris Agreement targets nine years ahead of 2030, becoming the first G-20 country to do so.
He highlighted India’s diversification of energy sources. The National Solar Mission capacity was raised from 20 gigawatts to 100 gigawatts. Policy revisions in tariffs in 2016, biofuel policy in 2018, and the National Hydrogen Mission in 2021 promote green hydrogen. Recently opening nuclear energy to the private sector is a historic step expected to increase baseload capacity by 2047. PM-KUSUM and biofuel programmes strengthen the rural economy.
According to Dr. Mishra, the benefits of clean energy reach directly to households, turning consumers into active participants and producers in the energy system. Nearly 100 percent household electrification and the PM-Surya Ghar scheme are important milestones. Initiatives like the UJALA LED programme and building codes promote energy efficiency, while the Lifestyle for Environment movement encourages behavioural change. The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for solar PV modules has raised manufacturing capacity to 120 gigawatts.
Through the International Solar Alliance (ISA), India leads 112 sun-rich countries. Initiatives like Panchamrit, early achievement of targets, and the Lifestyle for Environment movement have established India as a global climate leader. Dr. Mishra reiterated the need for climate justice, climate finance, and technology transfer. As renewable energy grows, investment in grid stability, transmission, and storage is essential. While coal will continue to play a role in the near future, efforts to reduce emissions will persist.
In conclusion, Dr. Mishra stated that India’s energy transition model balances development and environmental conservation, serving as an inspiration for the Global South.
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