Energy Independence Key To Self-Reliance, Geopolitical Stability: Dr Jitendra Singh
Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Friday said that energy independence has become an economic, strategic, and geopolitical necessity, asserting that India’s transition to clean and diversified energy sources is closely aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the country’s growing global role.
Addressing an event in the national capital, the Minister said debates over adopting clean energy are no longer relevant, as global consensus now recognises energy transition as essential for sustainable growth, economic resilience, and geopolitical compatibility. He said India has no alternative but to move decisively towards cleaner energy pathways.
Dr Singh emphasised that reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports strengthens self-reliance and prepares the country for an inevitable global shift, noting that even traditional energy-exporting nations are rapidly diversifying their energy portfolios. He warned against persisting with outdated energy models, comparing it to clinging to obsolete technology.
Highlighting India’s rising stature globally, the Minister said the country has moved from being a passive participant to a trendsetter in areas such as climate action, clean energy, space, and advanced technologies. He said India is increasingly being looked upon for leadership and direction in global initiatives.
Referring to India’s clean energy commitments, Dr Singh recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement of India’s Net Zero target by 2070 and the government’s resolve to achieve 100 GW of nuclear energy capacity by 2047. He stressed that energy sources should be evaluated based on reliability, suitability, and application-specific requirements rather than ideological preferences.
The Minister underlined that while renewable energy will form a major part of India’s energy mix, certain sectors such as data centres, artificial intelligence, and advanced computing require uninterrupted 24×7 power, where nuclear energy plays a vital role. He said the future lies in a hybrid energy model that integrates renewables, nuclear power, hydrogen, and other emerging solutions.
Drawing parallels with technological evolution, Dr Singh said India’s energy strategy will mature into an integrated framework, much like the evolving balance between artificial intelligence and human intelligence.
He also highlighted the government’s reforms in opening strategic sectors such as nuclear energy and space to private participation, stating that public-private collaboration is essential to achieve scale, speed, and sustainability.
Calling for greater cooperation between the public and private sectors, the Minister said national progress requires shared responsibility, trust, and integrated action.
Dr Jitendra Singh concluded that clean energy is no longer limited to policy discussions but is becoming a way of life, adding that India is on the right path to leading the global clean energy transition under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
