Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India's push for energy self-reliance during a foreign tour involving the United Arab Emirates and four European nations [2, 3].
These diplomatic efforts aim to secure India's energy future against a backdrop of global crises, geopolitical instability, and supply-chain disruptions. By diversifying energy sources and increasing domestic capacity, India seeks to reduce its vulnerability to external market shocks.
During his visit to the UAE, which took place between May 13 and May 19, 2026 [2], Modi signed infrastructure agreements focused on strategic petroleum reserves and LPG supplies [2]. This six-day tour [5] was designed to strengthen energy security and technical cooperation [3].
Modi said that the country now ranks among the top five countries globally for solar power production [4]. He said that this significant energy capacity was built over a period of 12 years [4].
Parallel to the push for renewables, the administration is investing in fossil-fuel transitions. The government has established an outlay of ₹37,500 crore for the Scheme for Promotion of Surface Coal and Lignite Gasification Projects [1]. This initiative is framed as a bold step toward "Atmanirbhar," or self-reliant, energy [1].
While the administration promotes a clean-energy transition through nuclear breakthroughs and wind energy surges [1], the simultaneous investment in coal gasification suggests a multi-pronged strategy to ensure stability while transitioning away from traditional fuels [1].
“India now ranks among the top five countries globally for solar power production”
India is employing a hedge strategy to manage its energy transition. By simultaneously securing long-term fossil fuel agreements with the UAE and investing heavily in solar and coal-to-gas technology, New Delhi is attempting to maintain industrial growth without sacrificing energy security during the volatile shift toward net-zero emissions.
