Energy independence key to self-reliance and geopolitical stability: Jitendra Singh

New Delhi, December 19: Union Minister of State (independent charge) for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences Dr Jitendra Singh on Friday said energy independence is no longer optional but an economic, strategic and geopolitical necessity, as India moves decisively towards a clean and diversified energy mix aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Addressing an event in the national capital, Singh said debates around whether to adopt green and clean energy have become redundant, as the global consensus now recognises energy transition as essential for sustainable growth, economic resilience and geopolitical compatibility.

“Energy independence is inseparably linked to self-reliance and India’s expanding global role. If India has to move forward, there is simply no alternative,” he said.

Singh said reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports strengthens India’s economic resilience and prepares the country for a global shift already underway, as traditional energy exporters themselves diversify their energy portfolios. He cautioned against persisting with outdated energy models, noting that such an approach risks leaving the country technologically and strategically vulnerable.

Highlighting India’s growing influence in global affairs, the minister said the country is no longer a passive participant in international initiatives but is increasingly setting global benchmarks in areas such as climate action, clean energy and advanced technology. He said Indian innovation in sectors like space and biotechnology is now contributing to global progress.

Referring to India’s clean energy roadmap, Singh recalled the prime minister’s announcement of a net-zero target by 2070 and the government’s resolve to achieve 100 gigawatts of nuclear energy capacity by 2047. He said energy choices should be guided by suitability, reliability and application-specific needs rather than ideological preferences.

While renewable energy will form a major share of India’s future energy mix, Singh stressed that sectors such as data centres, artificial intelligence and advanced computing require uninterrupted, stable 24×7 power, where nuclear energy plays a critical role. He said India’s future lies in a hybrid energy model that integrates renewables, nuclear power, hydrogen and other emerging solutions.

Drawing parallels with technological evolution, the minister said India’s energy strategy is moving towards a balanced and integrated framework, similar to how artificial intelligence is evolving into a model that combines AI with human intelligence.

Singh also highlighted the government’s decision to open strategic sectors such as nuclear energy and space to private participation, calling it a bold reform that enables public-private collaboration at scale. He said sustained progress would require trust, coordination and shared responsibility between the public and private sectors.

Concluding his address, Singh said clean energy has moved beyond policy debate and is becoming a way of life. He said India is well positioned to lead the global clean energy transition through innovation, adaptability and collective effort.