Industry experts in New Delhi outlined a diversified energy strategy to support India's transition into a developed nation by 2047 [3].
This strategy is critical as the country balances aggressive economic growth with environmental commitments. Achieving the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision requires a stable power grid capable of sustaining industrial expansion without compromising climate targets.
During the Times Internet Ecopreneur Awards 2026, a panel of leaders examined the specific energy mix required to meet these goals. The discussion emphasized a balanced portfolio that integrates renewables, natural gas, nuclear power, and other emerging technologies [2].
Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA, joined other industry leaders including Ayush Gupta of GAIL, Akshat Goel of Ambashakti Group, and Devesh Garg of Gruner Renewable Energy [1]. The group said the roadmap for green growth shows that a single energy source cannot meet the nation's long-term needs.
Energy demand remains a primary challenge for the roadmap. India’s electricity demand is projected to grow at 6.4% per year [1]. This growth necessitates an expansion of infrastructure and a shift toward more productive energy use to power the next phase of industrialization.
Natural gas is positioned as a key transitional fuel in this framework. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set a target to provide piped natural gas access to 700 cities [2]. This expansion aims to reduce reliance on more polluting fuels while maintaining energy security.
The panel said the path to 2047 depends on the synergy between traditional energy security and the adoption of global green standards. By diversifying the energy mix, India aims to decouple its economic development from carbon-intensive power sources.
“India’s electricity demand is projected to grow at 6.4% per year.”
The focus on a 'balanced portfolio' suggests that India will not rely solely on solar and wind to reach its 2047 goals. By incorporating nuclear energy and expanding natural gas infrastructure to 700 cities, the government is prioritizing baseload power stability to ensure that rapid industrial growth does not lead to energy shortages or total dependence on volatile renewable outputs.
