New Delhi, Sep 2: Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh, stated on Tuesday that energy security is intrinsically linked with national security, strategic autonomy, and economic resilience. Addressing the 6th International Climate Summit 2026 in New Delhi, organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Singh emphasised the imperative for India to enhance self-reliance in the energy sector amidst global geopolitical uncertainties, disrupted supply chains, and volatile energy markets.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the minister underscored the critical relationship between technological advancement, self-reliance, and affordability in harnessing the full potential of emerging energy technologies. He highlighted that as India moves towards an AI-driven data-centre era, access to affordable and clean energy sources will be paramount for maximising the benefits derived from these advancements.
Dr. Singh described the current period as one of significant transition towards a secure and sustainable energy future, including a decisive shift towards clean energy solutions. He noted that as India aims to strengthen its global standing, it must align with international trends and technological progress within the energy domain.
The government’s strategy for achieving energy security involves a multi-pronged approach, with nuclear energy being a key focus. Dr. Singh pointed to India’s ambitious nuclear energy mission, targeting 100 GW by 2047, and highlighted the recent opening of the nuclear sector to private players as a pivotal development. He stressed that an integrated strategy and a broadened resource base are essential to meet the nation’s ambitious energy objectives.
The minister also referenced the plan to establish five Small Modular Reactors by 2033, indicating the growing importance of such advanced technologies in the coming years. Furthermore, he detailed ongoing initiatives in green hydrogen, including the recent inauguration of a green hydrogen train.
Dr. Singh asserted that biofuels and the principles of a circular economy will play a significant role in India’s transition to clean energy. He posited that the next industrial revolution will be substantially driven by circular economy models and novel technological pathways, including the advancement of biofuels, ethanol, and sustainable fuels. He stressed that India’s escalating energy demands across sectors such as agriculture, health, irrigation, fertilisers, and transportation necessitate a continuous acceleration in the development and adoption of clean energy technologies.
The Ministry of Science and Technology and its allied departments are actively contributing to India’s evolving technological landscape, with scientific institutions, universities, and startups playing a crucial role. The minister highlighted the remarkable expansion of India’s startup ecosystem, which has grown from approximately 350 entities to nearly 2.4 lakh, positioning India as the third-largest startup nation globally.
Dr. Singh also advocated for increased private sector involvement in India’s technological innovation journey, stating that the government cannot lead all initiatives alone. He indicated that the private sector’s participation is increasingly required in newly opening avenues.
He drew attention to the introduction of a ₹1 lakh crore R&D Fund, designed to expedite private sector engagement in research and development. This initiative aims to incentivise and encourage private entities to invest in new and emerging technological areas.
The minister further emphasised the significance of non-governmental contributions to research, noting that the Anusandhan National Research Foundation anticipates a substantial involvement from non-government sources, projected to contribute around 50-60 per cent of the total resources. He stated that such collaboration is vital for India to maintain its global competitiveness.
Dr. Singh observed a decline in the historical scepticism between public and private sectors, noting that both entities are increasingly learning to collaborate effectively. He concluded that achieving ambitious national targets will depend on the unified efforts of the government, industry, and other stakeholders.
He urged the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry to serve as a conduit and facilitator between the government and the non-government sectors. He highlighted the potential for industry associations and professional bodies to play a critical role in bridging these sectors and contributing to India’s collective progress towards 2047.
Dr. Singh reiterated that India’s energy transition must be viewed holistically, requiring concurrent advancements in technology, self-reliance, affordability, clean energy, private participation, and innovation. He concluded that the nation’s expanding energy needs and its ambition to remain a global competitor underscore the necessity of continuously developing indigenous and technologically advanced energy solutions.
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