UPSC Mains Answer: "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.

Difficulty Level: Medium

Pre-requisite: Understanding of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7, and familiarity with India’s energy sector policies, including electrification schemes, renewable energy targets, and challenges in power distribution and affordability. A timeline

Sub-category: Economic Development (Energy and Infrastructure)

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Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy (SDG 7) is fundamental to achieving the broader Sustainable Development Goals, as energy underpins economic growth, social equity, and environmental sustainability. India has made significant strides in this domain, yet challenges persist.
The government launched the Saubhagya scheme in 2017, achieving near-universal household electrification by connecting over 26 million households. The Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana (UDAY) aimed to improve the financial health of power distribution companies, enhancing reliability. Renewable energy capacity has surged, with India ranking 4th globally in wind power and 5th in solar power, driven by the National Solar Mission’s target of 100 GW by 2022. Initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) have provided clean cooking fuel to over 80 million households, reducing indoor air pollution.
However, affordability remains a concern, with high tariffs and energy poverty affecting rural areas. Transmission and distribution losses, though reduced, still exceed 20%. While renewable energy growth is commendable, grid integration and storage challenges persist. To sustain progress, India must focus on decentralized energy solutions, energy efficiency, and innovative financing mechanisms. Achieving SDG 7 will catalyze progress across other SDGs, including poverty eradication, health, and climate action, positioning India as a global leader in sustainable development.