There are moments in life when there is no time to think about what should be done. There is only time to do what one has been trained to do. That is what makes the flydubai FZ1073 incident involving Indian Captain Smit Machchhar so powerful.&nbsp;On September 30, the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight carrying 174 passengers descended rapidly after an alleged confrontation in the cockpit in which Machchhar was seriously injured. Despite his injuries, the Indian captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, enabling passengers and other pilots on board to intervene. The aircraft was eventually brought under control and diverted safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The aircraft reportedly descended nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds.&nbsp;The story is still subject to investigation, including the motive behind the confrontation. But one fact is already clear: when a situation moved far beyond normal procedures, human courage and trained responses mattered enormously.&nbsp;Machchhar's action is particularly striking because he was not operating in comfortable circumstances. He was seriously injured, under attack and confronted with the possibility of hundreds of lives being lost. Yet, instead of surrendering to panic, he took an action that allowed others to enter the cockpit and help regain control.&nbsp;That is where the incident becomes a lesson for global civilisation.<h2>A Hero Recognised Across Borders</h2>&nbsp;The extraordinary response to Machchhar's actions has crossed national boundaries.Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Captain Machchhar a “HERO”, saying that despite being seriously injured, he showed “immense courage” and an “unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others”. Modi said his valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy, adding that India was proud of him and praying for his recovery.&nbsp;President Droupadi Murmu similarly praised his “heroic courage and incredible presence of mind”. She said that even after being seriously injured in a moment of grave peril, Machchhar remained determined to protect others, and that his bravery and quick response helped prevent a major tragedy. She concluded: “I salute his indomitable spirit.”&nbsp;US President Donald Trump also described Machchhar as a hero while discussing the incident. Trump said that despite being in very bad shape, the pilot's decision to open the cockpit door was heroic and enabled others to intervene.&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Machchhar a “true hero”, noting that the captain fought back, resisted the attack and opened the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to overpower the attacker and preventing what Netanyahu described as a catastrophic mid-air disaster.The significance of these tributes lies not merely in the word “hero”. Four leaders from different countries and institutions recognised the same qualities: courage under extreme pressure, presence of mind and an instinct to protect human life.&nbsp;Modern civilisation often celebrates technology. We speak about artificial intelligence, automation, autonomous vehicles and increasingly sophisticated aircraft. But when systems fail or circumstances become unpredictable, technology still depends upon the quality of human judgement.&nbsp;A trained mind does not necessarily eliminate fear. It learns how to function despite fear.Aviation has repeatedly demonstrated this.&nbsp;<h2>Hudson River: When an Airliner Became a Boat</h2>&nbsp;On January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 lost almost all thrust in both engines after hitting birds shortly after take-off from New York. Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles landed the Airbus A320 on the Hudson River. All 155 people aboard survived, although several people suffered serious injuries. The US National Transportation Safety Board documented the complete loss of thrust and subsequent ditching.&nbsp;The event became a lasting example of how training, judgement and teamwork can compress years of aviation experience into a few critical minutes.<h2>Gimli Glider: Flying Without Fuel</h2>&nbsp;Then there was Air Canada Flight 143 — the famous Gimli Glider — in 1983.The Boeing 767 ran out of fuel at 41,000 feet. Captain Robert Pearson's experience with gliding became crucial. With the engines gone and limited systems available, the crew used extraordinary airmanship to bring the aircraft down safely at a former air force base.&nbsp;There were no deaths or serious injuries.&nbsp;<h2>British Airways 9: Four Engines Go Silent</h2>&nbsp;In 1982, British Airways Flight 9 flew through volcanic ash from Mount Galunggung.All four engines of the Boeing 747 failed at cruising altitude. Captain Eric Moody calmly managed the aircraft as a glider until the engines could be restarted. The aircraft subsequently landed safely in Jakarta, with everyone aboard surviving.&nbsp;The episode demonstrated the value of calm decision-making when an apparently impossible situation develops thousands of feet above the ground.&nbsp;<h2>Air Transat 236: The Atlantic Glide</h2>&nbsp;In 2001, Air Transat Flight 236 lost both engines over the Atlantic after exhausting its fuel.Captain Robert Piché and First Officer Dirk DeJager glided the Airbus A330 toward the Azores and landed at Lajes. All 291 passengers and 13 crew survived.&nbsp;It was another reminder that when propulsion disappears, training and airmanship become the aircraft's most important remaining assets.&nbsp;<h2>Qantas 32: 50 Minutes of Relentless Decision-Making</h2>&nbsp;In 2010, Qantas Flight 32 suffered an uncontained engine failure shortly after take-off, causing extensive damage and multiple system failures on an Airbus A380 carrying 469 people.&nbsp;The crew spent about 50 minutes assessing the aircraft, managing cascading problems and preparing for the landing. The aircraft eventually landed safely at Singapore, with no reported injuries among passengers or crew.&nbsp;These five episodes are different in their causes, aircraft and circumstances. Yet they share one common thread: the crisis was bigger than any individual pilot, but the response depended upon individuals who refused to lose control of themselves.&nbsp;That is the real lesson of Smit Machchhar.&nbsp;Heroism is often portrayed as a sudden burst of extraordinary bravery. Aviation suggests something more profound. Heroism can be the outcome of thousands of hours of ordinary discipline — training repeatedly performed until the correct response becomes instinctive.&nbsp;A pilot does not train only to fly when everything is normal. Training exists for the abnormal: fire, engine failure, loss of control, medical emergencies, communication breakdowns and situations that may never have been imagined.&nbsp;The same principle applies far beyond the cockpit.&nbsp;A doctor in an emergency room, a firefighter entering a burning building, a soldier under attack, a rescue worker during a disaster or an ordinary citizen helping another person in danger may face the same psychological battle: fear versus responsibility.&nbsp;The trained mind does not always choose courage because courage feels easy. It chooses action because responsibility has become stronger than fear.&nbsp;Captain Machchhar's story therefore belongs not merely to India or to aviation. It belongs to a larger human narrative — a reminder that civilisation survives not only because of its machines, but because people are prepared to protect other human beings when machines and circumstances fail.&nbsp;The most powerful lesson from the flydubai cockpit may therefore be simple: Train the mind before the crisis arrives. Because when the moment comes, there may be no time left to learn how to be brave. &nbsp;

Machchhar's action is particularly striking because he was not operating in comfortable circumstances. He was seriously injured, under attack and confronted with the possibility of hundreds of lives being lost. 

There are moments in life when there is no time to think about what should be done. There is only time to do what one has been trained to do. That is what makes the flydubai FZ1073 incident involving Indian Captain Smit Machchhar so powerful. On September 30, the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight carrying 174 passengers descended rapidly after an alleged confrontation in the cockpit in which Machchhar was seriously injured. Despite his injuries, the Indian captain managed to unlock the cockpit door, enabling passengers and other pilots on board to intervene. The aircraft was eventually brought under control and diverted safely to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The aircraft reportedly descended nearly 14,000 feet in less than 30 seconds. The story is still subject to investigation, including the motive behind the confrontation. But one fact is already clear: when a situation moved far beyond normal procedures, human courage and trained responses mattered enormously. Machchhar's action is particularly striking because he was not operating in comfortable circumstances. He was seriously injured, under attack and confronted with the possibility of hundreds of lives being lost. Yet, instead of surrendering to panic, he took an action that allowed others to enter the cockpit and help regain control. That is where the incident becomes a lesson for global civilisation. A Hero Recognised Across Borders The extraordinary response to Machchhar's actions has crossed national boundaries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Captain Machchhar a “HERO”, saying that despite being seriously injured, he showed “immense courage” and an “unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others”. Modi said his valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy, adding that India was proud of him and praying for his recovery. President Droupadi Murmu similarly praised his “heroic courage and incredible presence of mind”. She said that even after being seriously injured in a moment of grave peril, Machchhar remained determined to protect others, and that his bravery and quick response helped prevent a major tragedy. She concluded: “I salute his indomitable spirit.” US President Donald Trump also described Machchhar as a hero while discussing the incident. Trump said that despite being in very bad shape, the pilot's decision to open the cockpit door was heroic and enabled others to intervene. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Machchhar a “true hero”, noting that the captain fought back, resisted the attack and opened the cockpit door, enabling passengers and crew to overpower the attacker and preventing what Netanyahu described as a catastrophic mid-air disaster. The significance of these tributes lies not merely in the word “hero”. Four leaders from different countries and institutions recognised the same qualities: courage under extreme pressure, presence of mind and an instinct to protect human life. Modern civilisation often celebrates technology. We speak about artificial intelligence, automation, autonomous vehicles and increasingly sophisticated aircraft. But when systems fail or circumstances become unpredictable, technology still depends upon the quality of human judgement. A trained mind does not necessarily eliminate fear. It learns how to function despite fear. Aviation has repeatedly demonstrated this. Hudson River: When an Airliner Became a Boat On January 15, 2009, US Airways Flight 1549 lost almost all thrust in both engines after hitting birds shortly after take-off from New York. Captain Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and First Officer Jeffrey Skiles landed the Airbus A320 on the Hudson River. All 155 people aboard survived, although several people suffered serious injuries. The US National Transportation Safety Board documented the complete loss of thrust and subsequent ditching. The event became a lasting example of how training, judgement and teamwork can compress years of aviation experience into a few critical minutes. Gimli Glider: Flying Without Fuel Then there was Air Canada Flight 143 — the famous Gimli Glider — in 1983. The Boeing 767 ran out of fuel at 41,000 feet. Captain Robert Pearson's experience with gliding became crucial. With the engines gone and limited systems available, the crew used extraordinary airmanship to bring the aircraft down safely at a former air force base. There were no deaths or serious injuries. British Airways 9: Four Engines Go Silent In 1982, British Airways Flight 9 flew through volcanic ash from Mount Galunggung. All four engines of the Boeing 747 failed at cruising altitude. Captain Eric Moody calmly managed the aircraft as a glider until the engines could be restarted. The aircraft subsequently landed safely in Jakarta, with everyone aboard surviving. The episode demonstrated the value of calm decision-making when an apparently impossible situation develops thousands of feet above the ground. Air Transat 236: The Atlantic Glide In 2001, Air Transat Flight 236 lost both engines over the Atlantic after exhausting its fuel. Captain Robert Piché and First Officer Dirk DeJager glided the Airbus A330 toward the Azores and landed at Lajes. All 291 passengers and 13 crew survived. It was another reminder that when propulsion disappears, training and airmanship become the aircraft's most important remaining assets. Qantas 32: 50 Minutes of Relentless Decision-Making In 2010, Qantas Flight 32 suffered an uncontained engine failure shortly after take-off, causing extensive damage and multiple system failures on an Airbus A380 carrying 469 people. The crew spent about 50 minutes assessing the aircraft, managing cascading problems and preparing for the landing. The aircraft eventually landed safely at Singapore, with no reported injuries among passengers or crew. These five episodes are different in their causes, aircraft and circumstances. Yet they share one common thread: the crisis was bigger than any individual pilot, but the response depended upon individuals who refused to lose control of themselves. That is the real lesson of Smit Machchhar. Heroism is often portrayed as a sudden burst of extraordinary bravery. Aviation suggests something more profound. Heroism can be the outcome of thousands of hours of ordinary discipline — training repeatedly performed until the correct response becomes instinctive. A pilot does not train only to fly when everything is normal. Training exists for the abnormal: fire, engine failure, loss of control, medical emergencies, communication breakdowns and situations that may never have been imagined. The same principle applies far beyond the cockpit. A doctor in an emergency room, a firefighter entering a burning building, a soldier under attack, a rescue worker during a disaster or an ordinary citizen helping another person in danger may face the same psychological battle: fear versus responsibility. The trained mind does not always choose courage because courage feels easy. It chooses action because responsibility has become stronger than fear. Captain Machchhar's story therefore belongs not merely to India or to aviation. It belongs to a larger human narrative — a reminder that civilisation survives not only because of its machines, but because people are prepared to protect other human beings when machines and circumstances fail. The most powerful lesson from the flydubai cockpit may therefore be simple: Train the mind before the crisis arrives. Because when the moment comes, there may be no time left to learn how to be brave.

Machchhar's action is particularly striking because he was not operating in comfortable circumstances. He was seriously injured, under attack and confronted with the possibility of hundreds of lives being lost.&nbsp;

What Smit Machchhar, aviation tragedies teach us about crisis management | Explained

India’s renewable-energy story has entered a new phase. The country is no longer debating whether it can build clean-energy capacity at scale; the more pressing question is whether the power generated can be evacuated and delivered where it is needed. With India’s non-fossil fuel-based installed electricity generation capacity crossing 300 GW as on July 31, 2026 — more than 60% of the 500 GW target for 2030 — transmission infrastructure, particularly Right of Way (RoW), is emerging as a critical governance and stakeholder-management challenge.&nbsp;The numbers underline the speed of the transition. Solar capacity has reached 164.59 GW, while wind stands at 58.14 GW. Large and small hydro together account for 57.24 GW, bio-power 11.75 GW and nuclear 8.78 GW. India now ranks third globally in renewable energy installed capacity. Solar, the principal growth engine, has risen from just 2.8 GW in 2014 to around 165 GW, while wind has grown from 21 GW to more than 58 GW during the same period.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/short-videos/india-supports-peace-initiatives-urges-focus-on-seafarers-food-and-energy-security-1790482807242">India supports peace initiatives, urges focus on seafarers, food and energy security</a>&nbsp;The acceleration is equally visible in annual additions. During 2025-26, India added a record 55.29 GW of non-fossil fuel-based electricity capacity, including 44.6 GW of solar and 6 GW of wind. Renewable-energy generation, meanwhile, rose from 190.96 billion units in 2014-15 to 477.79 billion units in 2025-26. The challenge now is to ensure that this impressive generation capacity does not run ahead of the transmission network required to carry it.&nbsp;The issue is not uniquely Indian. Globally, renewable power is expanding rapidly while grid infrastructure is struggling to keep pace. The IEA forecasts global renewable electricity generation to cross 17,000 TWh by 2030, almost 90% higher than in 2023. IRENA estimates that renewables could account for 90% of global electricity by 2050. The growing electricity requirements of AI and data centres are adding another layer of urgency. The global grid challenge has become so significant that UN Secretary-General António Guterres launched the Global Grids Accelerator, describing grids as the “arteries of the energy transition”. The message is clear: building generation without simultaneously strengthening grids can leave clean power stranded.&nbsp;India is already seeing the early signs of this mismatch. According to ICRA data, of the 54.8 GW of recently commissioned renewable-energy capacity, around 33% was evacuating power through the Temporary General Network Access (T-GNA) route as of May 2026. Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal has also identified grid management and transmission expansion as key challenges following the crossing of the 300-GW non-fossil capacity milestone.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-emerges-as-a-growing-energy-supplier-to-china-1790141681141">Canada emerges as a growing energy supplier to China</a><h2>When Grid Meets Ground Reality of RoW</h2>This brings Right of Way into sharp focus. A transmission line is not simply an engineering project involving towers, conductors and substations. It is a physical corridor cutting across farms, villages and private and community land. Every tower location, access route and line corridor can affect landowners and farmers. For communities dependent on agriculture, even when the land itself is not permanently acquired, the presence of transmission infrastructure can trigger concerns about crop damage, future land use, property valuation and the perceived impact on livelihoods. This is where technical planning meets the realities of local governance.&nbsp;Compensation and valuation can become particularly sensitive. A landowner may look at the issue not merely through the statutory compensation offered, but through the future economic value of the land, agricultural income and the inconvenience caused during construction. Where expectations and official assessments diverge, disputes can quickly emerge. Delayed payments, unclear communication or the involvement of multiple agencies can further deepen mistrust.&nbsp;Local opposition can consequently become a serious source of project delay. A transmission project may have received approvals at one level, yet face objections when implementation reaches the village. Administrative processes can also vary across states, creating different approaches to RoW permissions, compensation, land access and grievance handling. For developers operating across multiple states, this lack of uniformity can add complexity to project execution.&nbsp;The challenge is already playing out across several renewable-energy corridors. From Ananthapuramu, Kadapa and Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh to Davangere, Chitradurga, Gadag and Koppal in Karnataka, and from Dharashiv and Solapur in Maharashtra to Khavda and Bhuj in Gujarat and Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Barmer and Bikaner in Rajasthan, India’s renewable-energy map is increasingly intersecting with its transmission map. Each new corridor, however, also brings the realities of land access, farmers’ concerns, compensation and local consent into the project’s path. The transmission challenge, therefore, is not confined to substations and power lines; it increasingly begins at the village level.<h2>Road to Resolution: Centre-State Coordination</h2>The answer, therefore, cannot be left entirely to transmission developers or district administrations. RoW needs to be treated as a coordinated Centre-State governance priority. The Ministry of Power, state governments, district administrations, transmission developers and local communities need to work from a common framework. The Centre can help establish broad and transparent principles, while states can ensure that local procedures are predictable and efficiently implemented. District administrations, meanwhile, are best placed to bridge the gap between policy and the ground.&nbsp;There is also a strong case for engaging communities much earlier. Instead of approaching landowners only when construction is imminent, project developers should establish communication channels during the planning stage. Information on routes, compensation principles, construction schedules and grievance mechanisms should be available in simple language. A clearly identified local contact point can prevent routine questions from turning into larger disputes.&nbsp;Most importantly, grievance redressal must be visible, accessible and time-bound. Farmers should know where to raise concerns, whom to approach and when they can expect a response. Transparent documentation of compensation and damage assessment can reduce ambiguity and create greater confidence.&nbsp;India’s clean-energy ambition is now large enough to require a corresponding institutional ambition. The country has demonstrated that renewable capacity can be added at remarkable speed. The next test is whether transmission infrastructure can move at the same pace.The 500-GW non-fossil capacity target is not merely a capacity milestone. It is part of a larger national ambition for energy security and Viksit Bharat 2047. That ambition requires electricity to travel efficiently from resource-rich regions to centres of demand.&nbsp;The transition, therefore, needs more than turbines, solar modules and transmission towers. It needs trust on the ground, predictable governance and a shared Centre-State approach. India has shown it can build clean power fast. Now, it must ensure that the power has a clear, timely and socially workable route to reach every part of the country.

India has crossed 300 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity, but its renewable-energy push now faces a new challenge: transmission. The article examines how Right of Way, land access, compensation, local concerns and Centre-State coordination could affect the country’s 500-GW goal.

India’s renewable-energy story has entered a new phase. The country is no longer debating whether it can build clean-energy capacity at scale; the more pressing question is whether the power generated can be evacuated and delivered where it is needed. With India’s non-fossil fuel-based installed electricity generation capacity crossing 300 GW as on July 31, 2026 — more than 60% of the 500 GW target for 2030 — transmission infrastructure, particularly Right of Way (RoW), is emerging as a critical governance and stakeholder-management challenge. The numbers underline the speed of the transition. Solar capacity has reached 164.59 GW, while wind stands at 58.14 GW. Large and small hydro together account for 57.24 GW, bio-power 11.75 GW and nuclear 8.78 GW. India now ranks third globally in renewable energy installed capacity. Solar, the principal growth engine, has risen from just 2.8 GW in 2014 to around 165 GW, while wind has grown from 21 GW to more than 58 GW during the same period. Also Read: India supports peace initiatives, urges focus on seafarers, food and energy security The acceleration is equally visible in annual additions. During 2025-26, India added a record 55.29 GW of non-fossil fuel-based electricity capacity, including 44.6 GW of solar and 6 GW of wind. Renewable-energy generation, meanwhile, rose from 190.96 billion units in 2014-15 to 477.79 billion units in 2025-26. The challenge now is to ensure that this impressive generation capacity does not run ahead of the transmission network required to carry it. The issue is not uniquely Indian. Globally, renewable power is expanding rapidly while grid infrastructure is struggling to keep pace. The IEA forecasts global renewable electricity generation to cross 17,000 TWh by 2030, almost 90% higher than in 2023. IRENA estimates that renewables could account for 90% of global electricity by 2050. The growing electricity requirements of AI and data centres are adding another layer of urgency. The global grid challenge has become so significant that UN Secretary-General António Guterres launched the Global Grids Accelerator, describing grids as the “arteries of the energy transition”. The message is clear: building generation without simultaneously strengthening grids can leave clean power stranded. India is already seeing the early signs of this mismatch. According to ICRA data, of the 54.8 GW of recently commissioned renewable-energy capacity, around 33% was evacuating power through the Temporary General Network Access (T-GNA) route as of May 2026. Power Secretary Pankaj Agarwal has also identified grid management and transmission expansion as key challenges following the crossing of the 300-GW non-fossil capacity milestone. Also Read: Canada emerges as a growing energy supplier to China When Grid Meets Ground Reality of RoW This brings Right of Way into sharp focus. A transmission line is not simply an engineering project involving towers, conductors and substations. It is a physical corridor cutting across farms, villages and private and community land. Every tower location, access route and line corridor can affect landowners and farmers. For communities dependent on agriculture, even when the land itself is not permanently acquired, the presence of transmission infrastructure can trigger concerns about crop damage, future land use, property valuation and the perceived impact on livelihoods. This is where technical planning meets the realities of local governance. Compensation and valuation can become particularly sensitive. A landowner may look at the issue not merely through the statutory compensation offered, but through the future economic value of the land, agricultural income and the inconvenience caused during construction. Where expectations and official assessments diverge, disputes can quickly emerge. Delayed payments, unclear communication or the involvement of multiple agencies can further deepen mistrust. Local opposition can consequently become a serious source of project delay. A transmission project may have received approvals at one level, yet face objections when implementation reaches the village. Administrative processes can also vary across states, creating different approaches to RoW permissions, compensation, land access and grievance handling. For developers operating across multiple states, this lack of uniformity can add complexity to project execution. The challenge is already playing out across several renewable-energy corridors. From Ananthapuramu, Kadapa and Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh to Davangere, Chitradurga, Gadag and Koppal in Karnataka, and from Dharashiv and Solapur in Maharashtra to Khavda and Bhuj in Gujarat and Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Barmer and Bikaner in Rajasthan, India’s renewable-energy map is increasingly intersecting with its transmission map. Each new corridor, however, also brings the realities of land access, farmers’ concerns, compensation and local consent into the project’s path. The transmission challenge, therefore, is not confined to substations and power lines; it increasingly begins at the village level. Road to Resolution: Centre-State Coordination The answer, therefore, cannot be left entirely to transmission developers or district administrations. RoW needs to be treated as a coordinated Centre-State governance priority. The Ministry of Power, state governments, district administrations, transmission developers and local communities need to work from a common framework. The Centre can help establish broad and transparent principles, while states can ensure that local procedures are predictable and efficiently implemented. District administrations, meanwhile, are best placed to bridge the gap between policy and the ground. There is also a strong case for engaging communities much earlier. Instead of approaching landowners only when construction is imminent, project developers should establish communication channels during the planning stage. Information on routes, compensation principles, construction schedules and grievance mechanisms should be available in simple language. A clearly identified local contact point can prevent routine questions from turning into larger disputes. Most importantly, grievance redressal must be visible, accessible and time-bound. Farmers should know where to raise concerns, whom to approach and when they can expect a response. Transparent documentation of compensation and damage assessment can reduce ambiguity and create greater confidence. India’s clean-energy ambition is now large enough to require a corresponding institutional ambition. The country has demonstrated that renewable capacity can be added at remarkable speed. The next test is whether transmission infrastructure can move at the same pace. The 500-GW non-fossil capacity target is not merely a capacity milestone. It is part of a larger national ambition for energy security and Viksit Bharat 2047. That ambition requires electricity to travel efficiently from resource-rich regions to centres of demand. The transition, therefore, needs more than turbines, solar modules and transmission towers. It needs trust on the ground, predictable governance and a shared Centre-State approach. India has shown it can build clean power fast. Now, it must ensure that the power has a clear, timely and socially workable route to reach every part of the country.

India has crossed 300 GW of non-fossil electricity capacity, but its renewable-energy push now faces a new challenge: transmission. The article examines how Right of Way, land access, compensation, local concerns and Centre-State coordination could affect the country’s 500-GW goal.

India’s renewable-energy push hits a RoW roadblock — why Centre & states need to act together

There are few things more politically sensitive in a democracy than a voter’s name. A candidate can lose an election and return to the political battlefield. A party can lose power and fight another day. But when a citizen finds his or her name missing from the electoral roll, the question becomes far more fundamental: Will my voice count when I go to vote?That is why the Special Intensive Revision, or SIR, of electoral rolls in Delhi has moved rapidly from an administrative exercise to a political controversy.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-voter-roll-shake-up-3-31-million-electors-flagged-in-sir-review-1789876190414/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-voter-roll-shake-up-3-31-million-electors-flagged-in-sir-review-1789876190414/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The numbers explain the intensity of the debate. The draft electoral roll published on August 31 contained around 97.5 lakh electors, compared with nearly 1.4 crore at the beginning of the exercise. Around 47.5 lakh names were excluded from the draft roll, largely because enumeration forms could not be collected during house-to-house verification. At the same time, more than 33 lakh voters were issued notices over discrepancies in their records.For the Election Commission, SIR is about electoral-roll integrity. For political parties and many citizens, however, the scale of the exercise has raised questions about how an administrative process can affect democratic participation.And that is where the real political debate begins.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bengal-election-results-jhalmuri-to-juggernaut-bjp-spices-up-tmc-s-rout-voters-show-no-mamata-for-didi-s-15-year-rule-1777962852209">Bengal Election Results: Jhalmuri to juggernaut, BJP spices up TMC’s rout; voters show no ‘mamata’ for Didi’s 15-year rule</a><h3>A notice is not a deletion — but it is still a serious moment</h3>&nbsp;One important distinction has sometimes been lost in the political noise: receiving an SIR notice does not automatically mean that a voter's name has been deleted.The Delhi Chief Electoral Officer has clarified that no elector can be removed without an opportunity to be heard and a proper, speaking and appealable order. The notices are part of the verification process.Yet the sheer number of notices makes the issue significant.The list has included political leaders as well as senior bureaucrats and constitutional functionaries. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, BJP veteran L K Advani and several other prominent names have figured among voters asked to validate their details.The fact that even prominent and politically well-connected voters have received notices illustrates one thing clearly: the exercise is throwing up discrepancies across sections of the electorate.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sir-row-congress-stages-nationwide-protests-demands-cec-gyanesh-kumar-s-resignation-gaurav-gogoi-detained-1790339848783">SIR row: Congress stages nationwide protests, demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, Gaurav Gogoi detained</a>&nbsp;But it also raises another question: If people with easy access to documents and officials can face verification problems, what happens to voters who have neither?That is perhaps the most important social dimension of the SIR debate.<h3>The politics of paperwork</h3>&nbsp;The controversy is not simply about voter lists. It is also about documentation.India's electoral system has millions of voters who move between cities for work, change addresses, live in rented accommodation or have imperfectly recorded family details. A mismatch in a name, age, address or previous electoral record can therefore become more than a clerical problem.The Election Commission has said the verification process is designed to establish eligibility. Critics of the exercise, meanwhile, have raised concerns about whether genuine voters could face difficulties navigating the process.The Supreme Court has now entered this debate. On September 22, it questioned the Election Commission over the basis for notices issued under the “logical discrepancies” category and asked whether some notices appeared to have been generated mechanically and whether additional filters were required.That judicial scrutiny does not settle the political argument. But it underlines why transparency in the process matters.<h3>Why has SIR become politically explosive?</h3>&nbsp;Because every electoral roll is ultimately a political document.Political parties depend on voters being correctly identified and mapped. Constituencies are built around electoral rolls. Campaign strategies, booth management and turnout calculations all depend on the basic assumption that the roll reflects the eligible electorate.The ruling BJP and opposition parties have therefore approached the exercise differently. BJP leaders have emphasised helping voters complete the verification process, while opposition parties have raised concerns about possible exclusion and have sought more time for voters to respond.Neither political argument can substitute for the verification of individual cases.That is why the credibility of SIR will depend less on political speeches and more on what happens at the ground level: whether voters understand the notices, whether officials hear their claims, whether documents are examined fairly and whether genuine mistakes can be corrected.<h3>The bigger question is trust</h3>&nbsp;There is a legitimate democratic reason for maintaining accurate electoral rolls. Dead voters, duplicate entries, shifted voters and other erroneous entries should not remain indefinitely on electoral lists.But electoral-roll cleaning has another obligation: an eligible voter should not lose access to the ballot because of an avoidable administrative error.These two objectives are not necessarily contradictory.Indeed, the success of SIR will ultimately be judged by whether it can accomplish both — a cleaner electoral roll and confidence among legitimate voters that their names will not disappear without due process.Delhi has already demonstrated how complicated that task can become. The Election Commission is expanding its supervisory workforce to handle the large number of notices, while special camps and awareness efforts are being organised to encourage voters to file claims and objections.The political battle over SIR may continue. Parties will make their arguments, governments will defend the process and courts will examine questions of procedure.But beyond the BJP, Congress, AAP or any other political formation lies the most important stakeholder: the voter.A voter list is not merely a database. It is the bridge between citizenship and political participation.Cleaning that database may be necessary. But the democratic test is equally clear: the process must be accurate enough to remove ineligible entries and accessible enough to ensure that genuine voters are not left behind.

Over 47 lakh names were excluded in Delhi’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) draft roll. Explore the controversy, Supreme Court intervention, and political debate.

There are few things more politically sensitive in a democracy than a voter’s name. A candidate can lose an election and return to the political battlefield. A party can lose power and fight another day. But when a citizen finds his or her name missing from the electoral roll, the question becomes far more fundamental: Will my voice count when I go to vote? That is why the Special Intensive Revision, or SIR, of electoral rolls in Delhi has moved rapidly from an administrative exercise to a political controversy. https://www.wionews.com/videos/delhi-voter-roll-shake-up-3-31-million-electors-flagged-in-sir-review-1789876190414/embed The numbers explain the intensity of the debate. The draft electoral roll published on August 31 contained around 97.5 lakh electors, compared with nearly 1.4 crore at the beginning of the exercise. Around 47.5 lakh names were excluded from the draft roll, largely because enumeration forms could not be collected during house-to-house verification. At the same time, more than 33 lakh voters were issued notices over discrepancies in their records. For the Election Commission, SIR is about electoral-roll integrity. For political parties and many citizens, however, the scale of the exercise has raised questions about how an administrative process can affect democratic participation. And that is where the real political debate begins. Also read: Bengal Election Results: Jhalmuri to juggernaut, BJP spices up TMC’s rout; voters show no ‘mamata’ for Didi’s 15-year rule A notice is not a deletion — but it is still a serious moment One important distinction has sometimes been lost in the political noise: receiving an SIR notice does not automatically mean that a voter's name has been deleted. The Delhi Chief Electoral Officer has clarified that no elector can be removed without an opportunity to be heard and a proper, speaking and appealable order. The notices are part of the verification process. Yet the sheer number of notices makes the issue significant. The list has included political leaders as well as senior bureaucrats and constitutional functionaries. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, former Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, former Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, BJP veteran L K Advani and several other prominent names have figured among voters asked to validate their details. The fact that even prominent and politically well-connected voters have received notices illustrates one thing clearly: the exercise is throwing up discrepancies across sections of the electorate. Also read: SIR row: Congress stages nationwide protests, demands CEC Gyanesh Kumar's resignation, Gaurav Gogoi detained But it also raises another question: If people with easy access to documents and officials can face verification problems, what happens to voters who have neither? That is perhaps the most important social dimension of the SIR debate. The politics of paperwork The controversy is not simply about voter lists. It is also about documentation. India's electoral system has millions of voters who move between cities for work, change addresses, live in rented accommodation or have imperfectly recorded family details. A mismatch in a name, age, address or previous electoral record can therefore become more than a clerical problem. The Election Commission has said the verification process is designed to establish eligibility. Critics of the exercise, meanwhile, have raised concerns about whether genuine voters could face difficulties navigating the process. The Supreme Court has now entered this debate. On September 22, it questioned the Election Commission over the basis for notices issued under the “logical discrepancies” category and asked whether some notices appeared to have been generated mechanically and whether additional filters were required. That judicial scrutiny does not settle the political argument. But it underlines why transparency in the process matters. Why has SIR become politically explosive? Because every electoral roll is ultimately a political document. Political parties depend on voters being correctly identified and mapped. Constituencies are built around electoral rolls. Campaign strategies, booth management and turnout calculations all depend on the basic assumption that the roll reflects the eligible electorate. The ruling BJP and opposition parties have therefore approached the exercise differently. BJP leaders have emphasised helping voters complete the verification process, while opposition parties have raised concerns about possible exclusion and have sought more time for voters to respond. Neither political argument can substitute for the verification of individual cases. That is why the credibility of SIR will depend less on political speeches and more on what happens at the ground level: whether voters understand the notices, whether officials hear their claims, whether documents are examined fairly and whether genuine mistakes can be corrected. The bigger question is trust There is a legitimate democratic reason for maintaining accurate electoral rolls. Dead voters, duplicate entries, shifted voters and other erroneous entries should not remain indefinitely on electoral lists. But electoral-roll cleaning has another obligation: an eligible voter should not lose access to the ballot because of an avoidable administrative error. These two objectives are not necessarily contradictory. Indeed, the success of SIR will ultimately be judged by whether it can accomplish both — a cleaner electoral roll and confidence among legitimate voters that their names will not disappear without due process. Delhi has already demonstrated how complicated that task can become. The Election Commission is expanding its supervisory workforce to handle the large number of notices, while special camps and awareness efforts are being organised to encourage voters to file claims and objections. The political battle over SIR may continue. Parties will make their arguments, governments will defend the process and courts will examine questions of procedure. But beyond the BJP, Congress, AAP or any other political formation lies the most important stakeholder: the voter. A voter list is not merely a database. It is the bridge between citizenship and political participation. Cleaning that database may be necessary. But the democratic test is equally clear: the process must be accurate enough to remove ineligible entries and accessible enough to ensure that genuine voters are not left behind.

Over 47 lakh names were excluded in Delhi’s Special Intensive Revision (SIR) draft roll. Explore the controversy, Supreme Court intervention, and political debate.

SIR Explained | Why India’s voter list has suddenly become a political battleground

An ice-rock avalanche, a warming Himalaya and a nine-metre rise in river levels in just 30 minutes show why disaster management can no longer stop at national borders. The devastating flash floods that swept through central Nepal on August 26 are more than a Himalayan disaster. They are a warning for the entire South Asian region. More than 160 people have been reported dead, and nearly 500 remain missing, including 133 Indians, according to early assessments. The floods devastated settlements, washed away bridges, and damaged hydropower infrastructure across the affected areas.The speed of the disaster is particularly alarming. The flood wave travelled through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems, leaving little time for communities to respond. At Galchchi, water levels in the Trishuli reportedly rose by as much as nine metres in just 30 minutes. Several monitoring stations were damaged or washed away. That single statistic explains why the region needs a fundamentally different approach to disaster preparedness.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nepal-floods-157-dead-400-missing-us-india-china-world-bank-mobilise-aid-1787791144479">Nepal floods: Over 157 dead, 400 missing; US, India, China, World Bank mobilise aid</a><h2>What triggered the Nepal flash flood?</h2>Scientists are still investigating the precise sequence of events. But experts from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) say an ice-rock avalanche from a high-altitude area is the likely trigger. Preliminary assessments based on satellite information, videos and reports from affected areas indicate that a large volume of ice and rock debris may have entered the Lende Khola, a tributary of the Bhote Koshi. This could have generated a sudden and powerful surge carrying water, sediment and huge boulders downstream.The event's extraordinary speed is consistent with such a high-energy mountain hazard. Water levels at Galchchi rose by nine metres within half an hour, while levels at Malekhu reportedly increased by about seven metres over a similar period. There are also reports of seismic activity around the time of the event, and scientists are examining whether an earthquake may have contributed to the instability. Other possible mechanisms, including glacial processes and temporary river blockages, are also being investigated. It is therefore too early to attribute the disaster to a single cause with absolute certainty.What is increasingly clear, however, is that the cryosphere — the world's frozen regions of glaciers, snow and ice — is becoming a critical part of disaster-risk management.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-blog-nepal-flash-floods-live-updates-at-least-165-killed-hundreds-missing-as-rescue-operations-continue-1787800675570">Nepal floods LIVE: 165 killed, hundreds missing as rescue operations continue</a><h2>Is the damage confined to one country?</h2>The destruction has been severe. Villages and settlements were inundated, roads and bridges swept away and hydropower projects damaged. At least 19 bridges and around 40 km of roads were reported damaged in Nepal as rescue operations continued.But the bigger concern is geographical.Himalayan rivers cross political boundaries. The Trishuli enters India as the Gandak, eventually flowing through the densely populated plains of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. A sudden upstream event can therefore become a downstream emergency thousands of people away from its origin.This is why Bihar and Uttar Pradesh were placed on alert following the Nepal disaster. The safety of communities downstream depends partly on what happens upstream — often in terrain that is difficult to monitor in real time.<h2>Why Nepal, India, and China need to work together?</h2>The Himalayas are a shared geography, but disaster-management systems remain largely national. That needs to change. Nepal, India, and China should establish stronger mechanisms for real-time sharing of rainfall, river-flow, seismic, glacier, and satellite data. If an ice-rock avalanche or glacial lake event occurs in a remote high-altitude area, downstream authorities should receive an alert within minutes — not after floodwaters have already entered populated areas.<h2>Can technology make this increasingly possible?</h2>High-resolution satellites can monitor changes in glaciers and unstable slopes. Automated river gauges can detect sudden changes in water levels. Seismic sensors can identify disturbances associated with landslides and avalanches. Weather radar can track extreme precipitation. Artificial intelligence can combine these datasets and identify abnormal patterns much faster than conventional monitoring systems.The next step should be to connect these technologies across borders.A Himalayan Early Warning Network could integrate satellite imagery, ground sensors, river gauges, weather forecasts and AI-based risk models. Alerts could then be pushed directly to disaster-management authorities and vulnerable communities through cell broadcast, SMS, sirens and local communication networks. The objective should be simple: detect upstream, alert downstream and act before the flood arrives.<h2>Is Climate change making the risk harder to manage?</h2>It would be scientifically incorrect to say that climate change alone caused this particular flash flood. Mountain disasters are often produced by multiple factors — geology, earthquakes, rainfall, glacier instability and human settlement patterns. But climate change is changing the background conditions.The Himalayan region is warming, glaciers are retreating and glacial lakes are changing in size and stability. ICIMOD has repeatedly warned that increasing cryosphere-related hazards are creating new risks for mountain communities and downstream populations.The Nepal disaster is particularly significant because the region has experienced serious glacial and flash-flood events in recent years. A deadly flood in 2025 was linked to the sudden drainage of a supraglacial lake in Tibet, again demonstrating how an event originating upstream can rapidly become a cross-border crisis.This means South Asia cannot treat climate change as a distant environmental issue. It is increasingly a question of lives, infrastructure, food security, water security and economic stability.<h2>What can we do?</h2>The answer lies in a combination of science, technology, regional cooperation and climate action. Governments need to invest in glacier and river monitoring, climate-resilient infrastructure and stronger local disaster-response systems. Himalayan countries must improve data-sharing arrangements and conduct joint disaster simulations. Communities living along vulnerable rivers need evacuation routes, warning systems and regular preparedness exercises.At the same time, the region must contribute to the global effort to slow climate change through faster decarbonisation, cleaner energy, protection of forests and climate-resilient development. The Nepal flash flood has delivered a powerful message: nature does not respect borders, and neither does climate risk. The next disaster may begin on a glacier in one country, travel through a river in another and threaten millions downstream.The real test of South Asia's preparedness will therefore not be how quickly countries respond after a disaster. It will be whether they can share information quickly enough to warn people before the disaster reaches them.

At Galchchi, water levels in the Trishuli reportedly rose by as much as nine metres in just 30 minutes. Several monitoring stations were damaged or washed away. That single statistic explains why the region needs a fundamentally different approach to disaster preparedness.

An ice-rock avalanche, a warming Himalaya and a nine-metre rise in river levels in just 30 minutes show why disaster management can no longer stop at national borders. The devastating flash floods that swept through central Nepal on August 26 are more than a Himalayan disaster. They are a warning for the entire South Asian region. More than 160 people have been reported dead, and nearly 500 remain missing, including 133 Indians, according to early assessments. The floods devastated settlements, washed away bridges, and damaged hydropower infrastructure across the affected areas. The speed of the disaster is particularly alarming. The flood wave travelled through the Bhote Koshi and Trishuli river systems, leaving little time for communities to respond. At Galchchi, water levels in the Trishuli reportedly rose by as much as nine metres in just 30 minutes. Several monitoring stations were damaged or washed away. That single statistic explains why the region needs a fundamentally different approach to disaster preparedness. Also read | Nepal floods: Over 157 dead, 400 missing; US, India, China, World Bank mobilise aid What triggered the Nepal flash flood? Scientists are still investigating the precise sequence of events. But experts from the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) say an ice-rock avalanche from a high-altitude area is the likely trigger. Preliminary assessments based on satellite information, videos and reports from affected areas indicate that a large volume of ice and rock debris may have entered the Lende Khola, a tributary of the Bhote Koshi. This could have generated a sudden and powerful surge carrying water, sediment and huge boulders downstream. The event's extraordinary speed is consistent with such a high-energy mountain hazard. Water levels at Galchchi rose by nine metres within half an hour, while levels at Malekhu reportedly increased by about seven metres over a similar period. There are also reports of seismic activity around the time of the event, and scientists are examining whether an earthquake may have contributed to the instability. Other possible mechanisms, including glacial processes and temporary river blockages, are also being investigated. It is therefore too early to attribute the disaster to a single cause with absolute certainty. What is increasingly clear, however, is that the cryosphere — the world's frozen regions of glaciers, snow and ice — is becoming a critical part of disaster-risk management. Also read | Nepal floods LIVE: 165 killed, hundreds missing as rescue operations continue Is the damage confined to one country? The destruction has been severe. Villages and settlements were inundated, roads and bridges swept away and hydropower projects damaged. At least 19 bridges and around 40 km of roads were reported damaged in Nepal as rescue operations continued. But the bigger concern is geographical. Himalayan rivers cross political boundaries. The Trishuli enters India as the Gandak, eventually flowing through the densely populated plains of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. A sudden upstream event can therefore become a downstream emergency thousands of people away from its origin. This is why Bihar and Uttar Pradesh were placed on alert following the Nepal disaster. The safety of communities downstream depends partly on what happens upstream — often in terrain that is difficult to monitor in real time. Why Nepal, India, and China need to work together? The Himalayas are a shared geography, but disaster-management systems remain largely national. That needs to change. Nepal, India, and China should establish stronger mechanisms for real-time sharing of rainfall, river-flow, seismic, glacier, and satellite data. If an ice-rock avalanche or glacial lake event occurs in a remote high-altitude area, downstream authorities should receive an alert within minutes — not after floodwaters have already entered populated areas. Can technology make this increasingly possible? High-resolution satellites can monitor changes in glaciers and unstable slopes. Automated river gauges can detect sudden changes in water levels. Seismic sensors can identify disturbances associated with landslides and avalanches. Weather radar can track extreme precipitation. Artificial intelligence can combine these datasets and identify abnormal patterns much faster than conventional monitoring systems. The next step should be to connect these technologies across borders. A Himalayan Early Warning Network could integrate satellite imagery, ground sensors, river gauges, weather forecasts and AI-based risk models. Alerts could then be pushed directly to disaster-management authorities and vulnerable communities through cell broadcast, SMS, sirens and local communication networks. The objective should be simple: detect upstream, alert downstream and act before the flood arrives. Is Climate change making the risk harder to manage? It would be scientifically incorrect to say that climate change alone caused this particular flash flood. Mountain disasters are often produced by multiple factors — geology, earthquakes, rainfall, glacier instability and human settlement patterns. But climate change is changing the background conditions. The Himalayan region is warming, glaciers are retreating and glacial lakes are changing in size and stability. ICIMOD has repeatedly warned that increasing cryosphere-related hazards are creating new risks for mountain communities and downstream populations. The Nepal disaster is particularly significant because the region has experienced serious glacial and flash-flood events in recent years. A deadly flood in 2025 was linked to the sudden drainage of a supraglacial lake in Tibet, again demonstrating how an event originating upstream can rapidly become a cross-border crisis. This means South Asia cannot treat climate change as a distant environmental issue. It is increasingly a question of lives, infrastructure, food security, water security and economic stability. What can we do? The answer lies in a combination of science, technology, regional cooperation and climate action. Governments need to invest in glacier and river monitoring, climate-resilient infrastructure and stronger local disaster-response systems. Himalayan countries must improve data-sharing arrangements and conduct joint disaster simulations. Communities living along vulnerable rivers need evacuation routes, warning systems and regular preparedness exercises. At the same time, the region must contribute to the global effort to slow climate change through faster decarbonisation, cleaner energy, protection of forests and climate-resilient development. The Nepal flash flood has delivered a powerful message: nature does not respect borders, and neither does climate risk. The next disaster may begin on a glacier in one country, travel through a river in another and threaten millions downstream. The real test of South Asia's preparedness will therefore not be how quickly countries respond after a disaster. It will be whether they can share information quickly enough to warn people before the disaster reaches them.

At Galchchi, water levels in the Trishuli reportedly rose by as much as nine metres in just 30 minutes. Several monitoring stations were damaged or washed away. That single statistic explains why the region needs a fundamentally different approach to disaster preparedness.

Why Nepal’s flash flood is a warning for South Asia: Explained

The images from Jantar Mantar, the rise of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) as a symbol of student anger, and the resignation of the Union Education Minister have together created a rare national moment. The immediate political objective may have been achieved, but the larger question remains: Will India settle for a resignation, or will it demand a transformation?&nbsp;There is an old saying that “cockroaches survive where cleanliness and accountability fail.” The metaphor is strikingly relevant today. Paper leaks, opaque examination processes, institutional complacency and administrative lapses are the cockroaches of India’s education system. Eliminating one individual without disinfecting the ecosystem merely allows the infestation to return in another form.&nbsp;The protests, therefore, must not become another chapter in India’s familiar political script. If the movement is genuinely about educational justice—and not merely about political optics—then every stakeholder, from students and parents to teachers, policymakers, universities and civil society, must come together to shape structural reforms. India does not need another cycle of outrage; it needs legislation that restores trust in examinations and strengthens public education.&nbsp;The timing could not be more significant. India is home to nearly 1.4 billion people, with one of the world’s youngest populations. A demographic dividend can become a demographic disaster if educational institutions fail to inspire confidence. Every compromised examination is not merely an administrative failure; it is a breach of the social contract between the State and its youth.&nbsp;Ironically, the country already possesses a broad blueprint for reform. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions holistic learning, multidisciplinary education, foundational literacy, technology-enabled classrooms, vocational exposure from Class VI and greater flexibility in higher education. It also seeks to raise public investment in education to 6% of GDP and improve access, equity and quality. These are ambitious and necessary goals.&nbsp;Implementation, however, is where policy meets reality. Government data through UDISE+ points to improvements in enrolment and school infrastructure, while recent policy assessments by NITI Aayog recognise progress in access and governance but also underline persistent gaps in learning outcomes, teacher capacity and regional disparities. The lesson is simple: reforms announced from New Delhi must ultimately succeed in classrooms across rural Bihar, tribal Odisha, urban Maharashtra and every district in between.&nbsp;The present crisis should therefore become an opportunity to revisit examination governance. India needs a professionally managed, technology-driven and legally accountable assessment architecture. Question paper security, encrypted digital logistics, independent audit mechanisms, faster prosecution of organised leak networks and time-bound compensation mechanisms for affected students should become statutory requirements rather than administrative discretion. Equally important is strengthening the mental health support system for students who increasingly carry the burden of high-stakes examinations.&nbsp;Every generation has, during its halcyon days, contributed to nation-building. Today’s Gen Z, roughly those aged 14 to 29 years, is carrying that responsibility with fresh ideas, energy and technological confidence. The generations before them built institutions, expanded literacy and strengthened democracy. The present generation now seeks institutions that are transparent, accountable and fair. Nation-building is not the responsibility of Gen Z alone; it is a shared obligation across generations. “Mera Desh Mahan” must evolve from a slogan into a collective national commitment.&nbsp;India has witnessed examination controversies under governments of different political persuasions. Paper leaks, administrative failures, resignations and political blame games are not exclusive to one regime. Governments change; the systemic weaknesses often remain. That is precisely why this movement must resist being hijacked for electoral mileage or partisan mobilisation. Students deserve policy outcomes, not political theatre.&nbsp;The resignation may have addressed the immediate demand on the streets, but history rarely remembers resignations. It remembers reforms. The Right to Education transformed access. NEP 2020 attempted to redefine learning. The next milestone should be a robust legal framework that guarantees integrity in examinations and accountability in educational governance.&nbsp;Jantar Mantar has often amplified public sentiment. This time, it has amplified a generation’s demand for credibility. If policymakers listen beyond the slogans, this moment can become the beginning of India’s next education revolution.&nbsp;The real victory will not lie in who resigned, but in whether the ‘cockroaches’ of corruption, complacency and incompetence are finally driven out of India’s education system. Politics may win elections, but only education can secure the Republic’s future.&nbsp;(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Paper leaks, opaque examination processes, institutional complacency, and administrative lapses are the cockroaches of India’s education system. India needs a professionally managed, technology-driven and legally accountable assessment architecture.

The images from Jantar Mantar, the rise of the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) as a symbol of student anger, and the resignation of the Union Education Minister have together created a rare national moment. The immediate political objective may have been achieved, but the larger question remains: Will India settle for a resignation, or will it demand a transformation? There is an old saying that “cockroaches survive where cleanliness and accountability fail.” The metaphor is strikingly relevant today. Paper leaks, opaque examination processes, institutional complacency and administrative lapses are the cockroaches of India’s education system. Eliminating one individual without disinfecting the ecosystem merely allows the infestation to return in another form. The protests, therefore, must not become another chapter in India’s familiar political script. If the movement is genuinely about educational justice—and not merely about political optics—then every stakeholder, from students and parents to teachers, policymakers, universities and civil society, must come together to shape structural reforms. India does not need another cycle of outrage; it needs legislation that restores trust in examinations and strengthens public education. The timing could not be more significant. India is home to nearly 1.4 billion people, with one of the world’s youngest populations. A demographic dividend can become a demographic disaster if educational institutions fail to inspire confidence. Every compromised examination is not merely an administrative failure; it is a breach of the social contract between the State and its youth. Ironically, the country already possesses a broad blueprint for reform. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 envisions holistic learning, multidisciplinary education, foundational literacy, technology-enabled classrooms, vocational exposure from Class VI and greater flexibility in higher education. It also seeks to raise public investment in education to 6% of GDP and improve access, equity and quality. These are ambitious and necessary goals. Implementation, however, is where policy meets reality. Government data through UDISE+ points to improvements in enrolment and school infrastructure, while recent policy assessments by NITI Aayog recognise progress in access and governance but also underline persistent gaps in learning outcomes, teacher capacity and regional disparities. The lesson is simple: reforms announced from New Delhi must ultimately succeed in classrooms across rural Bihar, tribal Odisha, urban Maharashtra and every district in between. The present crisis should therefore become an opportunity to revisit examination governance. India needs a professionally managed, technology-driven and legally accountable assessment architecture. Question paper security, encrypted digital logistics, independent audit mechanisms, faster prosecution of organised leak networks and time-bound compensation mechanisms for affected students should become statutory requirements rather than administrative discretion. Equally important is strengthening the mental health support system for students who increasingly carry the burden of high-stakes examinations. Every generation has, during its halcyon days, contributed to nation-building. Today’s Gen Z, roughly those aged 14 to 29 years, is carrying that responsibility with fresh ideas, energy and technological confidence. The generations before them built institutions, expanded literacy and strengthened democracy. The present generation now seeks institutions that are transparent, accountable and fair. Nation-building is not the responsibility of Gen Z alone; it is a shared obligation across generations. “Mera Desh Mahan” must evolve from a slogan into a collective national commitment. India has witnessed examination controversies under governments of different political persuasions. Paper leaks, administrative failures, resignations and political blame games are not exclusive to one regime. Governments change; the systemic weaknesses often remain. That is precisely why this movement must resist being hijacked for electoral mileage or partisan mobilisation. Students deserve policy outcomes, not political theatre. The resignation may have addressed the immediate demand on the streets, but history rarely remembers resignations. It remembers reforms. The Right to Education transformed access. NEP 2020 attempted to redefine learning. The next milestone should be a robust legal framework that guarantees integrity in examinations and accountability in educational governance. Jantar Mantar has often amplified public sentiment. This time, it has amplified a generation’s demand for credibility. If policymakers listen beyond the slogans, this moment can become the beginning of India’s next education revolution. The real victory will not lie in who resigned, but in whether the ‘cockroaches’ of corruption, complacency and incompetence are finally driven out of India’s education system. Politics may win elections, but only education can secure the Republic’s future. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Paper leaks, opaque examination processes, institutional complacency, and administrative lapses are the cockroaches of India’s education system. India needs a professionally managed, technology-driven and legally accountable assessment architecture.

Jantar Mantar, CJP & resignation -- Will this momentum exterminate the ‘cockroaches’ in India’s education system?

The “Jhal” (spice) hit the Trinamool Congress, while “Muri” (puffed rice) brought all potential electoral nutrients for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Mamata Banerjee dubbed it “drama” when Narendra Modi made an unscheduled stop to eat Jhalmuri, famous street snack, during his poll campaign, but that TMC-labelled “drama” now appears to have turned into a political juggernaut—one that has enabled the BJP to trounce the Trinamool Congress, scripting saffron history in Bengal and putting it on course to form its first government in the state since Independence, as the Trinamool stares at defeat after 15 years in power. The final numbers of West Bengal Assembly elections signals a seismic political shift; this comes in the first election following a record voter deletion under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and amid high turnout exceeding 90 per cent in the early phases.&nbsp;Over 15 years ago, Mamata Banerjee rode to power on the emotive slogan of “Ma, Mati, Manush”, ending 34 years of Left Front rule. That promise of change swept her to three straight victories. But in 2026, the wind seems to have changed direction. Five potent forces — perceived minority appeasement, women’s safety concerns, economic discontent, internal party fissures, and a resurgent BJP machinery — have combined to challenge TMC’s dominance.&nbsp;Here are five key reasons that appear to have brought the curtains down on Trinamool hegemony:<h2>Mounting Anti-Incumbency, Governance Fatigue</h2>&nbsp;Fifteen years in power bred deep anti-incumbency. What began as a wave of hope gradually gave way to widespread frustration over “syndicate raj” and “cut-money” culture. Voters complained that everyday life — from getting a job to accessing welfare schemes — was marred by middlemen and political patronage. The high voter turnout reflected not just enthusiasm but accumulated anger against a system that many felt had become unresponsive and arrogant. Promises of poriborton (change) rang hollow as people saw little improvement on the ground in employment and public service delivery.<h2>Corruption Scandals Eroding Public Trust</h2>&nbsp;A string of high-profile scams dented TMC’s image beyond repair. The school recruitment scandal involving former minister Partha Chatterjee became a symbol of systemic rot, with allegations of massive irregularities in appointments. Critics pointed to multiple sectors where alleged financial misdeeds surfaced, painting a picture of entrenched corruption. Opposition campaigns, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders, repeatedly highlighted these issues, framing them as loot of Bengal’s resources. These scandals turned what should have been governance debates into questions of basic integrity, alienating even traditional supporters.<h2>Women’s Safety Concerns: Sandeshkhali, RG Kar as Turning Points</h2>Incidents like Sandeshkhali, where serious allegations of sexual violence and land grabbing by TMC local leaders emerged, struck a raw nerve, especially among women voters. The RG Kar medical college case further amplified fears about women’s safety under the regime. What was once TMC’s stronghold — the “Mahila” vote — showed signs of cracking. Many women, who had benefited from welfare schemes, appeared to weigh personal security and dignity higher. The BJP’s sharp focus on these issues during the campaign appears to have resonated deeply, converting outrage into votes and neutralising TMC’s traditional gender outreach.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-election-results-2026-winners-who-won-who-lost-full-list-of-constituency-wise-results-1777871942459">Tamil Nadu Election Results 2026 Winners: Who won, who lost</a><h2>Economic Grievances, Industrial Exodus</h2>&nbsp;Bengal’s economic decline under TMC rule became a major talking point. Reports suggested that over 6,700 companies had relocated or shut operations between 2011 and March 2025, pointing to industrial stagnation. Singur remained a lingering symbol of policy missteps, while youth unemployment fuelled outward migration. Critics argued that despite schemes, the lack of big-ticket investments and a hostile perception towards industry had left the state lagging. Voters in urban and semi-urban areas, in particular, seemed to demand jobs and development over freebies, tilting the scales against the incumbent.<h2>TMC’s Internal Strife and Factionalism</h2>&nbsp;The party’s visible divisions between veteran loyalists of Mamata Banerjee and the “naba Trinamool” camp around Abhishek Banerjee weakened its organisational strength. Public spats, allegations of money transactions, and reported clashes over local control eroded discipline. Senior leaders occasionally voiced dissatisfaction, and opposition parties seized upon this infighting to portray TMC as a house divided. Despite attempts at course correction through disciplinary measures, the generational tension and factional feuds often overshadowed the party’s campaign, leaving it vulnerable at the booth level.&nbsp;Beyond these, broader issues such as alleged appeasement politics, infiltration concerns along borders, neglect of communities like the Matuas and tribals, and post-poll violence fears played into the narrative of a state whose cultural identity and security were under strain.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-election-results-2026-winners-who-won-who-lost-key-seats-top-faces-and-full-list-of-constituency-wise-results-1777883304142">West Bengal Election Results 2026 Winners: Who won, who lost</a>

The BJP, on its part, ran a disciplined campaign built on booth-level management, central leadership push, and consistent messaging on development and good governance. Its surge from 77 seats in 2021 to challenging for power reflects years of groundwork in North Bengal, Jangalmahal, and urban pockets.&nbsp;As the trends point towards a historic shift, the verdict signals more than a change of guard. It reflects Bengal’s impatience with misrule and hunger for accountability. The massive mandate for BJP will resonate nationally and boost the party’s prospects heading into future Lok Sabha elections. It also sets a clear benchmark for performance.&nbsp;The new government will face the stiff challenge of living up to heightened expectations. Development, employment generation, zero tolerance on corruption, restoration of law and order, and ironclad women’s safety must become the prime focus. The fruits of good governance need to reach the last mile — from bustling Kolkata neighbourhoods to remote villages — if this mandate is to translate into lasting transformation. Bengal has spoken decisively. The real test now begins for those tasked with rebuilding “Sonar Bangla.”&nbsp;DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of WION.

BJP surges past majority in West Bengal, ending TMC’s 15-year rule. High turnout, anti-incumbency, corruption scandals, women’s safety concerns, economic slowdown, and internal rifts weaken Mamata Banerjee’s grip, signalling a major political shift in the state.

The “Jhal” (spice) hit the Trinamool Congress, while “Muri” (puffed rice) brought all potential electoral nutrients for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Mamata Banerjee dubbed it “drama” when Narendra Modi made an unscheduled stop to eat Jhalmuri, famous street snack, during his poll campaign, but that TMC-labelled “drama” now appears to have turned into a political juggernaut—one that has enabled the BJP to trounce the Trinamool Congress, scripting saffron history in Bengal and putting it on course to form its first government in the state since Independence, as the Trinamool stares at defeat after 15 years in power. The final numbers of West Bengal Assembly elections signals a seismic political shift; this comes in the first election following a record voter deletion under the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and amid high turnout exceeding 90 per cent in the early phases. Over 15 years ago, Mamata Banerjee rode to power on the emotive slogan of “Ma, Mati, Manush”, ending 34 years of Left Front rule. That promise of change swept her to three straight victories. But in 2026, the wind seems to have changed direction. Five potent forces — perceived minority appeasement, women’s safety concerns, economic discontent, internal party fissures, and a resurgent BJP machinery — have combined to challenge TMC’s dominance. Here are five key reasons that appear to have brought the curtains down on Trinamool hegemony: Mounting Anti-Incumbency, Governance Fatigue Fifteen years in power bred deep anti-incumbency. What began as a wave of hope gradually gave way to widespread frustration over “syndicate raj” and “cut-money” culture. Voters complained that everyday life — from getting a job to accessing welfare schemes — was marred by middlemen and political patronage. The high voter turnout reflected not just enthusiasm but accumulated anger against a system that many felt had become unresponsive and arrogant. Promises of poriborton (change) rang hollow as people saw little improvement on the ground in employment and public service delivery. Corruption Scandals Eroding Public Trust A string of high-profile scams dented TMC’s image beyond repair. The school recruitment scandal involving former minister Partha Chatterjee became a symbol of systemic rot, with allegations of massive irregularities in appointments. Critics pointed to multiple sectors where alleged financial misdeeds surfaced, painting a picture of entrenched corruption. Opposition campaigns, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other BJP leaders, repeatedly highlighted these issues, framing them as loot of Bengal’s resources. These scandals turned what should have been governance debates into questions of basic integrity, alienating even traditional supporters. Women’s Safety Concerns: Sandeshkhali, RG Kar as Turning Points Incidents like Sandeshkhali, where serious allegations of sexual violence and land grabbing by TMC local leaders emerged, struck a raw nerve, especially among women voters. The RG Kar medical college case further amplified fears about women’s safety under the regime. What was once TMC’s stronghold — the “Mahila” vote — showed signs of cracking. Many women, who had benefited from welfare schemes, appeared to weigh personal security and dignity higher. The BJP’s sharp focus on these issues during the campaign appears to have resonated deeply, converting outrage into votes and neutralising TMC’s traditional gender outreach. Also Read: Tamil Nadu Election Results 2026 Winners: Who won, who lost Economic Grievances, Industrial Exodus Bengal’s economic decline under TMC rule became a major talking point. Reports suggested that over 6,700 companies had relocated or shut operations between 2011 and March 2025, pointing to industrial stagnation. Singur remained a lingering symbol of policy missteps, while youth unemployment fuelled outward migration. Critics argued that despite schemes, the lack of big-ticket investments and a hostile perception towards industry had left the state lagging. Voters in urban and semi-urban areas, in particular, seemed to demand jobs and development over freebies, tilting the scales against the incumbent. TMC’s Internal Strife and Factionalism The party’s visible divisions between veteran loyalists of Mamata Banerjee and the “naba Trinamool” camp around Abhishek Banerjee weakened its organisational strength. Public spats, allegations of money transactions, and reported clashes over local control eroded discipline. Senior leaders occasionally voiced dissatisfaction, and opposition parties seized upon this infighting to portray TMC as a house divided. Despite attempts at course correction through disciplinary measures, the generational tension and factional feuds often overshadowed the party’s campaign, leaving it vulnerable at the booth level. Beyond these, broader issues such as alleged appeasement politics, infiltration concerns along borders, neglect of communities like the Matuas and tribals, and post-poll violence fears played into the narrative of a state whose cultural identity and security were under strain. Also Read: West Bengal Election Results 2026 Winners: Who won, who lost

BJP surges past majority in West Bengal, ending TMC’s 15-year rule. High turnout, anti-incumbency, corruption scandals, women’s safety concerns, economic slowdown, and internal rifts weaken Mamata Banerjee’s grip, signalling a major political shift in the state.

Bengal Election Results: Jhalmuri to juggernaut, BJP spices up TMC’s rout; voters show no ‘mamata’ for Didi’s 15-year rule

One year after the Pahalgam terror attack that took place on 22 April 2025, the aftershocks are still shaping South Asia’s geopolitics and testing the strategic clarity of the United States. The attack, which killed 26 innocent civilians, mostly Hindu tourists, was among the deadliest assaults on non-combatants in Kashmir in recent years. It not only reignited India–Pakistan tensions but also exposed the enduring duality in Washington’s regional approach—deepening ties with India while preserving tactical en&nbsp;Yet, the strategic convergence that might have followed did not fully materialise. Instead, India–US relations entered a phase of friction. A key irritant was President Trump’s claim of a US role in mediating between India and Pakistan—something New Delhi has consistently rejected. The disagreement soon spilled into the economic domain, with sharper rhetoric on trade imbalances, tariffs, and market access. What emerged was a familiar contradiction: the two countries aligned closely on security concerns, particularly terrorism and China’s rise, but diverged on economic nationalism and geopolitical autonomy.&nbsp;Despite these tensions, the relationship did not fracture. It recalibrated. The structural drivers of India–US ties remain strong. China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific continues to push both countries closer, making their partnership strategically indispensable. Economic interdependence also plays a stabilising role, with the United States remaining one of India’s largest trading partners and a critical source of investment and technology. Institutional mechanisms—ranging from defence cooperation to multilateral platforms—provide continuity even when political signals fluctuate. In essence, both sides recognised that short-term disagreements could not override long-term strategic interests.&nbsp;Even as ties stabilised after&nbsp;the February 2026 trade deal, bringing the effective tariff rate down to&nbsp;18 per cent, a new geopolitical variable began to change the equation: rising tensions involving the conflict between the US-Israel and Iran. In this evolving West Asian geopolitical landscape, Pakistan has found renewed relevance. In its newfound role as global peacemaker, Pakistan has worked frantically to water down differences between Iran and the US. Leveraging its geography and historical ties, Islamabad has positioned itself as a potential intermediary in backchannel engagements. For Washington, this is less about preference and more about necessity. Pakistan offers access, influence, and logistical advantages that become valuable during regional crises.&nbsp;This renewed engagement does not imply a strategic shift away from India, but it does highlight a recurring pattern. The United States tends to engage Pakistan tactically when immediate regional challenges demand it, even as it invests in a longer-term partnership with India. For New Delhi, this creates both concern and clarity. The concern lies in the possibility that renewed US–Pakistan engagement could dilute international pressure on terror networks operating from Pakistani soil. The clarity, however, comes from recognising that Washington’s approach is fundamentally interest-driven and issue-specific.&nbsp;At the same time, India’s position has strengthened in certain respects. Its consistent emphasis on counter-terrorism, reinforced after Pahalgam, has bolstered its credibility globally. The country’s growing economic weight and its role in seminal Indo-Pacific dynamics ensure that it remains central to US strategic thinking. Moreover, India’s policy of strategic autonomy allows it to engage multiple global players without being locked into rigid alliances&nbsp;Pahalgam was a stark reminder that acts of terror can recast not only national security responses but also international alignments. For the United States, it reaffirmed the need to manage competing priorities in a volatile region. For India, it underscored the importance of engaging global partners with both realism and resolve. In a world defined by changing equations, stability is no longer assured—it is continuously negotiated.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/iran-sets-condition-for-talks-in-pakistan-after-trump-s-ceasefire-extension-hormuz-kharg-island-islamabad-iran-port-blockade-1776841360874"> If they seek war, we are ready...': Iran sets condition for talks in Pakistan after Trump's ceasefire extension</a>

Trump reinforced this balance publicly, urging restraint and bilateral resolution even as tensions escalated briefly along the Line of Control. Behind the scenes, US diplomacy played a quiet role in encouraging de-escalation, underscoring its preference for stability over confrontation.

One year after the Pahalgam terror attack that took place on 22 April 2025, the aftershocks are still shaping South Asia’s geopolitics and testing the strategic clarity of the United States. The attack, which killed 26 innocent civilians, mostly Hindu tourists, was among the deadliest assaults on non-combatants in Kashmir in recent years. It not only reignited India–Pakistan tensions but also exposed the enduring duality in Washington’s regional approach—deepening ties with India while preserving tactical en Yet, the strategic convergence that might have followed did not fully materialise. Instead, India–US relations entered a phase of friction. A key irritant was President Trump’s claim of a US role in mediating between India and Pakistan—something New Delhi has consistently rejected. The disagreement soon spilled into the economic domain, with sharper rhetoric on trade imbalances, tariffs, and market access. What emerged was a familiar contradiction: the two countries aligned closely on security concerns, particularly terrorism and China’s rise, but diverged on economic nationalism and geopolitical autonomy. Despite these tensions, the relationship did not fracture. It recalibrated. The structural drivers of India–US ties remain strong. China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific continues to push both countries closer, making their partnership strategically indispensable. Economic interdependence also plays a stabilising role, with the United States remaining one of India’s largest trading partners and a critical source of investment and technology. Institutional mechanisms—ranging from defence cooperation to multilateral platforms—provide continuity even when political signals fluctuate. In essence, both sides recognised that short-term disagreements could not override long-term strategic interests. Even as ties stabilised after the February 2026 trade deal, bringing the effective tariff rate down to 18 per cent, a new geopolitical variable began to change the equation: rising tensions involving the conflict between the US-Israel and Iran. In this evolving West Asian geopolitical landscape, Pakistan has found renewed relevance. In its newfound role as global peacemaker, Pakistan has worked frantically to water down differences between Iran and the US. Leveraging its geography and historical ties, Islamabad has positioned itself as a potential intermediary in backchannel engagements. For Washington, this is less about preference and more about necessity. Pakistan offers access, influence, and logistical advantages that become valuable during regional crises. This renewed engagement does not imply a strategic shift away from India, but it does highlight a recurring pattern. The United States tends to engage Pakistan tactically when immediate regional challenges demand it, even as it invests in a longer-term partnership with India. For New Delhi, this creates both concern and clarity. The concern lies in the possibility that renewed US–Pakistan engagement could dilute international pressure on terror networks operating from Pakistani soil. The clarity, however, comes from recognising that Washington’s approach is fundamentally interest-driven and issue-specific. At the same time, India’s position has strengthened in certain respects. Its consistent emphasis on counter-terrorism, reinforced after Pahalgam, has bolstered its credibility globally. The country’s growing economic weight and its role in seminal Indo-Pacific dynamics ensure that it remains central to US strategic thinking. Moreover, India’s policy of strategic autonomy allows it to engage multiple global players without being locked into rigid alliances Pahalgam was a stark reminder that acts of terror can recast not only national security responses but also international alignments. For the United States, it reaffirmed the need to manage competing priorities in a volatile region. For India, it underscored the importance of engaging global partners with both realism and resolve. In a world defined by changing equations, stability is no longer assured—it is continuously negotiated. Also read: If they seek war, we are ready...': Iran sets condition for talks in Pakistan after Trump's ceasefire extension

Trump reinforced this balance publicly, urging restraint and bilateral resolution even as tensions escalated briefly along the Line of Control. Behind the scenes, US diplomacy played a quiet role in encouraging de-escalation, underscoring its preference for stability over confrontation.

Pahalgam, Pakistan and power politics: How the US balances India and Islamabad

The ongoing Middle East crisis triggered by the USA-Israel vs Iran conflict has severely disrupted the global economy and geopolitics. Rising energy prices, broken supply chains, and economic uncertainty are now affecting households and industries worldwide. In contrast, India is turning this challenge into an opportunity. With a strong economic base and a proven ability to bounce back from adversity, the country is accelerating its journey towards a sustainable and self-reliant energy sector.&nbsp;The recently concluded four-day Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 showcased India’s strong resolve and capability in handling energy challenges through renewable energy and clean technology. The clear message from the summit was that India’s energy transition is no longer just a national goal — it has become a powerful state-driven movement backed by innovation, policy reforms, and strong on-ground execution.&nbsp;At the summit, five key states — Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi — presented ambitious and transformative roadmaps that strongly support Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat. These states demonstrated how focused local strategies are helping achieve national targets of reliable power, clean energy adoption, and inclusive economic growth.&nbsp;Bihar: Powering growth with reliability, reformLeading the narrative was Bihar, which has made remarkable strides in strengthening its power infrastructure and ensuring reliable electricity access across urban and rural areas. Once considered a power-deficit state, Bihar today stands as a model of turnaround through focused investments in transmission, distribution, and smart technologies.&nbsp;At the summit, Bihar underlined its forward-looking approach toward grid modernization and energy storage systems, backed by structured investment pipelines. The state’s commitment to improving reliability and reducing losses has significantly enhanced consumer confidence and industrial growth.&nbsp;The power distribution sector in Bihar has achieved a significant national breakthrough, earning recognition from the Ministry of Power for its remarkable improvement in operational efficiency.&nbsp;Bihar’s Energy Minister, Bijendra Prasad, said the government is focused on strengthening service delivery, increasing transparency, and using technology to enhance the overall consumer experience across the state.&nbsp;Energy Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, who is also Chairman and Managing Director of Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited, highlighted that the improved national rankings reflect a deep structural transformation in Bihar’s power distribution sector. The state’s Energy Secretary added, “We are building a resilient and future-ready grid, with investments in storage, smart metering, and digital monitoring systems to meet rising demand efficiently.”&nbsp;Bihar’s push toward smart meters and digitization has improved billing efficiency, reduced AT&amp;C losses, and empowered consumers—key elements in driving both economic and social development.&nbsp;Gujarat: Leading India’s renewable revolutionGujarat reaffirmed its position as a renewable energy powerhouse with an ambitious target of achieving 190 GW of renewable capacity by 2047. The state’s proactive policies, investor-friendly ecosystem, and strong industrial base have made it a leader in solar and wind energy deployment.&nbsp;Its integrated approach—combining renewable expansion with grid stability and storage solutions—sets a benchmark for other states. Gujarat’s progress reflects how clean energy can drive industrial competitiveness while supporting sustainability goals.&nbsp;Andhra Pradesh: Building a clean energy hubAndhra Pradesh presented one of the most ambitious visions at the Bharat Electricity Summit, aiming to develop an integrated clean energy hub with investments exceeding Rs 6 lakh crore. The state is focusing on large-scale renewable projects, green hydrogen, and port-led industrial ecosystems powered by clean energy. NTPC Limited is developing one of the world’s largest Green Hydrogen Hubs at Pudimadaka near Visakhapatnam.&nbsp;The massive project, worth Rs1.85 lakh crore, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2025. Spread over 1,600 acres, the hub aims to produce 1,500 tons per day of green hydrogen and its derivatives — including green ammonia, methanol, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) — by 2032.&nbsp;This approach not only positions Andhra Pradesh as a global energy hub but also creates significant employment opportunities, boosting regional economic development. The state’s emphasis on infrastructure and innovation highlights the critical role of energy in shaping future economies.&nbsp;Maharashtra: Scaling capacity for future demandMaharashtra, one of India’s largest power-consuming states, showcased its roadmap to meet a projected demand of 280 TWh by 2030. With rapid urbanization and industrialization, the state under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis is investing heavily in capacity expansion, renewable integration, and grid modernization. Its strategy balances conventional and renewable sources while focusing on reliability and efficiency. Maharashtra’s stand underscores the importance of planning ahead to sustain economic growth without compromising on energy security.&nbsp;The state has now become a power surplus state and is well prepared to meet the growing demand from industries and data centres. Mahavitaran (Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company) has emerged as one of Asia’s largest power distribution utilities, with its annual revenue crossing ₹1 lakh crore.&nbsp;Delhi: Urban energy transition at scaleDelhi’s model represents the future of urban energy systems. The national capital is transitioning toward a high-renewable, storage-integrated power system, supported by advanced distribution reforms and near-universal smart meter adoption. Delhi is demonstrating how cities can lead the clean energy transition while ensuring uninterrupted power supply. Its success also highlights the role of policy innovation and governance in driving change.&nbsp;The Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is strongly promoting clean energy with a Rs 3,942 crore allocation for the power sector in the 2026–27 budget. The focus is on restoring Delhi’s status as "Green Delhi" with the expansion of rooftop solar, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and waste-to-energy projects. Key initiatives include the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, incentives for rooftop solar installations, and the creation of a dedicated Delhi Energy Conservation Fund to help Delhi move towards greater energy self-reliance.&nbsp;Viksit Bharat through state leadershipThe collective efforts of these five states illustrate a powerful narrative—India’s journey toward a developed nation is being shaped at the state level. Reliable electricity supply, smart metering, renewable energy adoption, and robust infrastructure are not just technical achievements; they are enablers of economic growth, social equity, and improved quality of life. Insights from government sources, including policy perspectives focused with national priorities, indicate that such state-led initiatives are critical to achieving energy security and sustainability goals. The emphasis on digitalization, storage, and green energy reflects a holistic approach to sectoral transformation.&nbsp;As the Bharat Electricity Summit concluded, it left behind a strong sense of optimism and direction. The participation of Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi showcased how diverse regions, with unique challenges and opportunities, are collectively contributing to India’s energy transition. Their leadership not only strengthens the power sector but also accelerates the broader vision of Viksit Bharat—a future where reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy powers every home, industry, and aspiration. &nbsp;

At the summit, five key states — Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi — presented ambitious and transformative roadmaps that strongly support Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat.

The ongoing Middle East crisis triggered by the USA-Israel vs Iran conflict has severely disrupted the global economy and geopolitics. Rising energy prices, broken supply chains, and economic uncertainty are now affecting households and industries worldwide. In contrast, India is turning this challenge into an opportunity. With a strong economic base and a proven ability to bounce back from adversity, the country is accelerating its journey towards a sustainable and self-reliant energy sector. The recently concluded four-day Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 showcased India’s strong resolve and capability in handling energy challenges through renewable energy and clean technology. The clear message from the summit was that India’s energy transition is no longer just a national goal — it has become a powerful state-driven movement backed by innovation, policy reforms, and strong on-ground execution. At the summit, five key states — Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi — presented ambitious and transformative roadmaps that strongly support Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat. These states demonstrated how focused local strategies are helping achieve national targets of reliable power, clean energy adoption, and inclusive economic growth. Bihar: Powering growth with reliability, reform Leading the narrative was Bihar, which has made remarkable strides in strengthening its power infrastructure and ensuring reliable electricity access across urban and rural areas. Once considered a power-deficit state, Bihar today stands as a model of turnaround through focused investments in transmission, distribution, and smart technologies. At the summit, Bihar underlined its forward-looking approach toward grid modernization and energy storage systems, backed by structured investment pipelines. The state’s commitment to improving reliability and reducing losses has significantly enhanced consumer confidence and industrial growth. The power distribution sector in Bihar has achieved a significant national breakthrough, earning recognition from the Ministry of Power for its remarkable improvement in operational efficiency. Bihar’s Energy Minister, Bijendra Prasad, said the government is focused on strengthening service delivery, increasing transparency, and using technology to enhance the overall consumer experience across the state. Energy Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh, who is also Chairman and Managing Director of Bihar State Power Holding Company Limited, highlighted that the improved national rankings reflect a deep structural transformation in Bihar’s power distribution sector. The state’s Energy Secretary added, “We are building a resilient and future-ready grid, with investments in storage, smart metering, and digital monitoring systems to meet rising demand efficiently.” Bihar’s push toward smart meters and digitization has improved billing efficiency, reduced AT&C losses, and empowered consumers—key elements in driving both economic and social development. Gujarat: Leading India’s renewable revolution Gujarat reaffirmed its position as a renewable energy powerhouse with an ambitious target of achieving 190 GW of renewable capacity by 2047. The state’s proactive policies, investor-friendly ecosystem, and strong industrial base have made it a leader in solar and wind energy deployment. Its integrated approach—combining renewable expansion with grid stability and storage solutions—sets a benchmark for other states. Gujarat’s progress reflects how clean energy can drive industrial competitiveness while supporting sustainability goals. Andhra Pradesh: Building a clean energy hub Andhra Pradesh presented one of the most ambitious visions at the Bharat Electricity Summit, aiming to develop an integrated clean energy hub with investments exceeding Rs 6 lakh crore. The state is focusing on large-scale renewable projects, green hydrogen, and port-led industrial ecosystems powered by clean energy. NTPC Limited is developing one of the world’s largest Green Hydrogen Hubs at Pudimadaka near Visakhapatnam. The massive project, worth Rs1.85 lakh crore, was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2025. Spread over 1,600 acres, the hub aims to produce 1,500 tons per day of green hydrogen and its derivatives — including green ammonia, methanol, and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) — by 2032. This approach not only positions Andhra Pradesh as a global energy hub but also creates significant employment opportunities, boosting regional economic development. The state’s emphasis on infrastructure and innovation highlights the critical role of energy in shaping future economies. Maharashtra: Scaling capacity for future demand Maharashtra, one of India’s largest power-consuming states, showcased its roadmap to meet a projected demand of 280 TWh by 2030. With rapid urbanization and industrialization, the state under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis is investing heavily in capacity expansion, renewable integration, and grid modernization. Its strategy balances conventional and renewable sources while focusing on reliability and efficiency. Maharashtra’s stand underscores the importance of planning ahead to sustain economic growth without compromising on energy security. The state has now become a power surplus state and is well prepared to meet the growing demand from industries and data centres. Mahavitaran (Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company) has emerged as one of Asia’s largest power distribution utilities, with its annual revenue crossing ₹1 lakh crore. Delhi: Urban energy transition at scale Delhi’s model represents the future of urban energy systems. The national capital is transitioning toward a high-renewable, storage-integrated power system, supported by advanced distribution reforms and near-universal smart meter adoption. Delhi is demonstrating how cities can lead the clean energy transition while ensuring uninterrupted power supply. Its success also highlights the role of policy innovation and governance in driving change. The Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, is strongly promoting clean energy with a Rs 3,942 crore allocation for the power sector in the 2026–27 budget. The focus is on restoring Delhi’s status as "Green Delhi" with the expansion of rooftop solar, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and waste-to-energy projects. Key initiatives include the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, incentives for rooftop solar installations, and the creation of a dedicated Delhi Energy Conservation Fund to help Delhi move towards greater energy self-reliance. Viksit Bharat through state leadership The collective efforts of these five states illustrate a powerful narrative—India’s journey toward a developed nation is being shaped at the state level. Reliable electricity supply, smart metering, renewable energy adoption, and robust infrastructure are not just technical achievements; they are enablers of economic growth, social equity, and improved quality of life. Insights from government sources, including policy perspectives focused with national priorities, indicate that such state-led initiatives are critical to achieving energy security and sustainability goals. The emphasis on digitalization, storage, and green energy reflects a holistic approach to sectoral transformation. As the Bharat Electricity Summit concluded, it left behind a strong sense of optimism and direction. The participation of Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi showcased how diverse regions, with unique challenges and opportunities, are collectively contributing to India’s energy transition. Their leadership not only strengthens the power sector but also accelerates the broader vision of Viksit Bharat—a future where reliable, sustainable, and inclusive energy powers every home, industry, and aspiration.

At the summit, five key states — Bihar, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Delhi — presented ambitious and transformative roadmaps that strongly support Prime Minister Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat.

From Bihar’s turnaround to Gujarat’s 190 GW renewables---Can THESE 5 states decide India’s energy future?

As the United States and the Israel-Iran conflict moved into a critical phase, with US President Donald Trump warning of possible strikes on electricity grids, a different story was unfolding about 1,758 miles away. In Yashobhumi, the national capital of India, the four-day Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 brought together energy leaders from across the world. The event featured deep and thoughtful discussions, important business meetings, a huge crowd of investors and innovators, and valuable talks between countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;The first-ever Bharat Electricity Summit, organised under the guidance of the Union Ministry of Power, proved highly successful. It showed India’s firm promise to cooperate with other nations on energy matters and strongly supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forward-looking vision of One Sun, One World, One Grid.&nbsp;&nbsp;This idea connects solar energy across borders so that clean power can be shared by all countries. While India marches towards its Viksit Bharat Mission to become a fully developed nation by 2047, it is making impressive progress on its energy goals. The country aims to build 500 gigawatts of power capacity from non-fossil sources such as solar and wind by 2030. More than 250 gigawatts have already been achieved, which means India has reached its COP26 climate promises well ahead of schedule.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the same time, the nation remains fully committed to net zero emissions by 2070, a target that will help fight climate change for future generations. Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar explained it simply and clearly: electricity is a common resource that every part of the economy depends on, and this understanding is giving fresh momentum to India’s journey of self-reliance and overall development.<h2>Energy security for Global South</h2>The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 opened many doors for global cooperation and practical deals that will benefit people far beyond India’s borders. High-level bilateral meetings took place with representatives from several countries, including Malawi, Tajikistan, Mauritius, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. Industry groups such as Africa50 and other international delegations also joined these conversations.&nbsp;&nbsp;The talks centred on four key areas that matter most for energy security today: sharing electricity across national borders, working together on renewable energy projects, building stronger transmission networks, and helping each other through training and the transfer of new technology. One special highlight was the India-Africa Strategic Meet, which focused on expanding renewable energy sources, modernising old power grids, and making sure electricity reaches every last village and home across the African continent. These partnerships are not just about signing papers; they are about creating real solutions that can light up homes, run schools, and power small businesses in developing regions.&nbsp;According to a report from the Press Information Bureau, the business side of the summit was equally impressive. More than 1,200 buyer-seller meetings took place, and the total business enquiries crossed Rs 517 crore. This shows strong interest from companies ready to invest and trade. More than 500 global exhibitors displayed the latest innovations covering every part of the electricity chain, from producing power to storing it and using it smartly.&nbsp;&nbsp;The event clearly reinforced India’s growing role in supporting the energy needs of South Asia and the wider Global South through both technology and investment. As noted by KPMG, the Bharat Electricity Summit worked like a bridge where India’s own strengths in manufacturing and innovation met the larger dreams of the world. The goal was to create real and lasting results that improve energy security for entire regions. For ordinary people, this means more reliable power supply, lower costs over time, and new job opportunities in green industries. By bringing everyone together—governments, companies, and experts—the summit proved that teamwork across borders is the best way to solve the big energy challenges of our time. India is not only meeting its own needs but also stepping up as a trusted partner for many nations that are still building their power systems.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-pauses-all-military-strikes-against-iranian-energy-sites-for-five-days-1774264303064">Trump pauses all military strikes against Iranian energy sites for five days</a><h2>Energy for every corner</h2>The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 gave a big push to the idea of Make in India for the World, showing how Indian manufacturing can supply clean energy equipment and solutions to every corner of the globe. Detailed discussions made it clear that India’s long journey towards complete energy transition will need huge investments—more than 22 trillion US dollars by 2070. These funds will go into building new power plants, stronger transmission lines, advanced storage systems, and modern digital controls. To give one concrete example, the country must add over 1.37 lakh circuit kilometres of new transmission lines by 2030, and this alone will require around 9 lakh crore rupees.&nbsp;&nbsp;Such massive expansion is needed to carry clean electricity from sunny deserts and windy coasts to cities and villages where people need it most. Energy storage is becoming equally important because the sun does not shine at night and the wind does not always blow. India has a huge potential of more than 200 gigawatts in pumped storage projects, which work like giant natural batteries by lifting water uphill during the day and releasing it to generate power later. Battery Energy Storage Systems, or BESS, are also gaining popularity as an easy way to handle peak demand hours when everyone switches on lights and fans at the same time.<h2>Bharat builds, world buys</h2>On the financial side, renewable energy tariffs and market rules are getting better, which helps investors feel more confident about long-term returns. A major step forward was the launch of the Indian Carbon Market Portal. Trading on this platform is expected to start soon, and it will open new ways to finance climate-friendly projects. Technology is changing the power sector in exciting ways too. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and digital twins—virtual copies of real power systems—are being used to predict problems before they happen and run grids more intelligently. Inspired by the success of India’s digital public infrastructure like UPI and Aadhaar, the concept of an “India Energy Stack” is now taking shape.&nbsp;&nbsp;This will create one smooth and connected system for the entire energy world, making it easier for producers, distributors, and users to work together. At the consumer level, smart meters and rooftop solar panels are turning ordinary households into “prosumers”—people who both produce and consume electricity. When a family’s solar panels generate extra power, they can sell it back to the grid and earn money. This simple change is empowering millions of Indians to become active players in the energy story rather than just passive users. All these developments together are creating a strong domestic industry that can export world-class clean energy technology while also meeting India’s own growing demand. The summit proved that Make in India is not just a slogan; it is a practical plan that will create jobs, reduce dependence on imports, and help the country lead the global supply chain for green power.&nbsp;The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 has set a clear direction for India’s power sector: anchored in resilience, energy transition, and global leadership. The summit reaffirmed India’s commitment to building a future-ready, technology-driven, and investment-friendly energy ecosystem, while supporting the energy needs of both the nation and the Global South.&nbsp;&nbsp;The outcomes of the summit will contribute significantly to shaping policy, strengthening partnerships, and accelerating the transition towards a reliable, affordable, and clean energy future. In the end, events like this remind us that when nations work together on something as basic as electricity, they are actually building a brighter and more secure world for everyone. India’s success at the Bharat Electricity Summit shows that a developing country can lead the way in solving one of humanity’s biggest challenges—providing clean power to all without harming the planet. As ordinary families switch on lights, run fans, and charge phones each day, they can now feel confident that India is quietly working behind the scenes to make sure this power is affordable, uninterrupted, and green for generations to come. The road ahead is long, but the summit has given a strong and hopeful start.

While India marches towards its Viksit Bharat Mission to become a fully developed nation by 2047, it is making impressive progress on its energy goals. The country aims to build 500 gigawatts of power capacity from non-fossil sources such as solar and wind by 2030.

As the United States and the Israel-Iran conflict moved into a critical phase, with US President Donald Trump warning of possible strikes on electricity grids, a different story was unfolding about 1,758 miles away. In Yashobhumi, the national capital of India, the four-day Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 brought together energy leaders from across the world. The event featured deep and thoughtful discussions, important business meetings, a huge crowd of investors and innovators, and valuable talks between countries. The first-ever Bharat Electricity Summit, organised under the guidance of the Union Ministry of Power, proved highly successful. It showed India’s firm promise to cooperate with other nations on energy matters and strongly supported Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forward-looking vision of One Sun, One World, One Grid. This idea connects solar energy across borders so that clean power can be shared by all countries. While India marches towards its Viksit Bharat Mission to become a fully developed nation by 2047, it is making impressive progress on its energy goals. The country aims to build 500 gigawatts of power capacity from non-fossil sources such as solar and wind by 2030. More than 250 gigawatts have already been achieved, which means India has reached its COP26 climate promises well ahead of schedule. At the same time, the nation remains fully committed to net zero emissions by 2070, a target that will help fight climate change for future generations. Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar explained it simply and clearly: electricity is a common resource that every part of the economy depends on, and this understanding is giving fresh momentum to India’s journey of self-reliance and overall development. Energy security for Global South The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 opened many doors for global cooperation and practical deals that will benefit people far beyond India’s borders. High-level bilateral meetings took place with representatives from several countries, including Malawi, Tajikistan, Mauritius, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. Industry groups such as Africa50 and other international delegations also joined these conversations. The talks centred on four key areas that matter most for energy security today: sharing electricity across national borders, working together on renewable energy projects, building stronger transmission networks, and helping each other through training and the transfer of new technology. One special highlight was the India-Africa Strategic Meet, which focused on expanding renewable energy sources, modernising old power grids, and making sure electricity reaches every last village and home across the African continent. These partnerships are not just about signing papers; they are about creating real solutions that can light up homes, run schools, and power small businesses in developing regions. According to a report from the Press Information Bureau, the business side of the summit was equally impressive. More than 1,200 buyer-seller meetings took place, and the total business enquiries crossed Rs 517 crore. This shows strong interest from companies ready to invest and trade. More than 500 global exhibitors displayed the latest innovations covering every part of the electricity chain, from producing power to storing it and using it smartly. The event clearly reinforced India’s growing role in supporting the energy needs of South Asia and the wider Global South through both technology and investment. As noted by KPMG, the Bharat Electricity Summit worked like a bridge where India’s own strengths in manufacturing and innovation met the larger dreams of the world. The goal was to create real and lasting results that improve energy security for entire regions. For ordinary people, this means more reliable power supply, lower costs over time, and new job opportunities in green industries. By bringing everyone together—governments, companies, and experts—the summit proved that teamwork across borders is the best way to solve the big energy challenges of our time. India is not only meeting its own needs but also stepping up as a trusted partner for many nations that are still building their power systems. Also Read: Trump pauses all military strikes against Iranian energy sites for five days Energy for every corner The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 gave a big push to the idea of Make in India for the World, showing how Indian manufacturing can supply clean energy equipment and solutions to every corner of the globe. Detailed discussions made it clear that India’s long journey towards complete energy transition will need huge investments—more than 22 trillion US dollars by 2070. These funds will go into building new power plants, stronger transmission lines, advanced storage systems, and modern digital controls. To give one concrete example, the country must add over 1.37 lakh circuit kilometres of new transmission lines by 2030, and this alone will require around 9 lakh crore rupees. Such massive expansion is needed to carry clean electricity from sunny deserts and windy coasts to cities and villages where people need it most. Energy storage is becoming equally important because the sun does not shine at night and the wind does not always blow. India has a huge potential of more than 200 gigawatts in pumped storage projects, which work like giant natural batteries by lifting water uphill during the day and releasing it to generate power later. Battery Energy Storage Systems, or BESS, are also gaining popularity as an easy way to handle peak demand hours when everyone switches on lights and fans at the same time. Bharat builds, world buys On the financial side, renewable energy tariffs and market rules are getting better, which helps investors feel more confident about long-term returns. A major step forward was the launch of the Indian Carbon Market Portal. Trading on this platform is expected to start soon, and it will open new ways to finance climate-friendly projects. Technology is changing the power sector in exciting ways too. Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and digital twins—virtual copies of real power systems—are being used to predict problems before they happen and run grids more intelligently. Inspired by the success of India’s digital public infrastructure like UPI and Aadhaar, the concept of an “India Energy Stack” is now taking shape. This will create one smooth and connected system for the entire energy world, making it easier for producers, distributors, and users to work together. At the consumer level, smart meters and rooftop solar panels are turning ordinary households into “prosumers”—people who both produce and consume electricity. When a family’s solar panels generate extra power, they can sell it back to the grid and earn money. This simple change is empowering millions of Indians to become active players in the energy story rather than just passive users. All these developments together are creating a strong domestic industry that can export world-class clean energy technology while also meeting India’s own growing demand. The summit proved that Make in India is not just a slogan; it is a practical plan that will create jobs, reduce dependence on imports, and help the country lead the global supply chain for green power. The Bharat Electricity Summit 2026 has set a clear direction for India’s power sector: anchored in resilience, energy transition, and global leadership. The summit reaffirmed India’s commitment to building a future-ready, technology-driven, and investment-friendly energy ecosystem, while supporting the energy needs of both the nation and the Global South. The outcomes of the summit will contribute significantly to shaping policy, strengthening partnerships, and accelerating the transition towards a reliable, affordable, and clean energy future. In the end, events like this remind us that when nations work together on something as basic as electricity, they are actually building a brighter and more secure world for everyone. India’s success at the Bharat Electricity Summit shows that a developing country can lead the way in solving one of humanity’s biggest challenges—providing clean power to all without harming the planet. As ordinary families switch on lights, run fans, and charge phones each day, they can now feel confident that India is quietly working behind the scenes to make sure this power is affordable, uninterrupted, and green for generations to come. The road ahead is long, but the summit has given a strong and hopeful start.

While India marches towards its Viksit Bharat Mission to become a fully developed nation by 2047, it is making impressive progress on its energy goals. The country aims to build 500 gigawatts of power capacity from non-fossil sources such as solar and wind by 2030.

War drums in West, green energy in Bharat! India powers Global South at Bharat Electricity Summit 2026

The war in West Asia has severely disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most crucial energy corridors that handles about one-quarter of the world's seaborne crude oil trade — roughly 20 million barrels per day — and nearly one-fifth of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. Today, amid the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict, this vital chokepoint has turned into a high-risk zone of deep uncertainty, sending shockwaves through energy markets and economies far beyond the Middle East. Tanker movement has slowed, insurance costs have jumped, and supply chains face fresh uncertainty.&nbsp;Consequently, oil prices have surged sharply, with Brent crude trading above $100 per barrel. Shipping delays are affecting industries worldwide. Transport costs are rising. Fertiliser prices are climbing, putting pressure on agriculture and food supply systems. Economists warn that prolonged disruption could dent global growth this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;India faces this shock acutely. The country imports around 85–90 per cent of its crude oil requirements. A significant share of these supplies traditionally moves through Hormuz-linked routes. LPG supplies are also under strain, as India depends heavily on imports from Gulf producers. Price volatility and delivery delays are adding pressure on households and industry.&nbsp;Lo and behold, the geopolitical tension triggered by the Israel-Iran war has dropped bombshells on the GST bonanza by dampening demand momentum, set to give a jolt to the manufacturing sector. Yet this difficult moment also presents a strategic opening. With decisive action, India can turn disruption into an accelerator for energy security and self-reliance — advancing faster toward Viksit Bharat and long-term resilience.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-strait-of-hormuz-only-closed-for-araghchi-says-iran-has-not-requested-ceasefire-1773673079517">'Strait of Hormuz only closed for...': Araghchi says Iran ready to take war as far as necessary</a>&nbsp;So, 5 game-changing opportunities India must seize now to turn global energy shock into rapid progress toward Atmanirbhar Energy.&nbsp;1. Break free from Middle East oil reliance: India has historically sourced a large portion of its crude imports from the Middle East, though supplier diversification has improved in recent years. Expanding procurement from the US, Russia, Latin America, and Africa can further reduce geographic risk. At the same time, boosting domestic exploration and accelerating renewable deployment will strengthen long-term energy security. The present crisis underscores that energy resilience is a strategic necessity, not just an economic choice. The crisis has made energy security a top national need. Use this drive for strong policy steps.&nbsp;2. Build massive energy storage as a shock absorber: Renewable energy capacity is expanding rapidly, but solar and wind are intermittent. Grid-scale storage — including battery energy storage systems and pumped hydro — is essential for reliable round-the-clock power. Multiple large storage projects are under development. Expanding storage capacity significantly by 2030 will help stabilise supply, reduce diesel backup dependence, and make renewables more dependable during global fuel disruptions.&nbsp;Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;3. Switch kitchens to clean electric cooking: Over 33 crore households use LPG. We import 60 per cent of our LPG needs. Almost 90 per cent of imports came through Hormuz. Shortages now drive people to induction stoves. Link them to rooftop solar. The PM Surya Ghar scheme grows fast. Over 30 lakh households now benefit from rooftop solar as per recent updates. One family switching saves 5,000 to 8,000 rupees yearly. Nationally, import costs drop by billions. Expand solar cooking trials. Boost subsidies for induction setups.&nbsp;4. Push hard for Solar &amp; Renewable self-sufficiency: India's installed renewable energy capacity now stands at 263.19 GW. This marks a key milestone, with renewables—including solar, wind, small hydro, and biomass—now making up over 50 per cent of the country's total installed power capacity of about 520.5 GW. Solar alone stands at around 140 GW. The 500 GW non-fossil target by 2030 turns into a survival goal. The crisis speeds up action. Set up more solar modules and inverter plants at home. Add wind and hybrid setups quickly. Every new gigawatt of local solar cuts the tanker needs from Hormuz. This gives true safety and big savings.&nbsp;5. Race toward full electric transport: The transportation sector accounts for the highest share of petroleum consumption in the country and relies predominantly on fuels derived from imported crude. The shock makes EVs a money-saving must, not just green. To put EVs on the fast track, there is a need to build local battery factories faster. Also, if FAME-III incentives are considered, it could expedite the pace. The government must zero in on rolling out charging points at high speed. Recent data shows millions of EVs on the roads. Schemes have helped sell many lakhs. Every million EVs saves billions in oil imports. They create lakhs of green jobs too. Turn world trouble into India's factory growth story.&nbsp;This Hormuz undoubtedly shocks today. Yet it can spark our best energy future. Act now on these five steps. India will reach energy independence more quickly. Homes cook with clean power. Roads fill with electric rides. Factories run on steady renewables. Import fears fade. Growth holds firm in hard times. Viksit Bharat comes sooner and stronger. The path is open. Seize it. Build an India that stands strong and free for all future generations.

India faces the Hormuz shock acutely. The country imports around 85–90 per cent of its crude oil requirements. A significant share of these supplies traditionally moves through Hormuz-linked routes.

The war in West Asia has severely disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most crucial energy corridors that handles about one-quarter of the world's seaborne crude oil trade — roughly 20 million barrels per day — and nearly one-fifth of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. Today, amid the escalating US-Israel-Iran conflict, this vital chokepoint has turned into a high-risk zone of deep uncertainty, sending shockwaves through energy markets and economies far beyond the Middle East. Tanker movement has slowed, insurance costs have jumped, and supply chains face fresh uncertainty. Consequently, oil prices have surged sharply, with Brent crude trading above $100 per barrel. Shipping delays are affecting industries worldwide. Transport costs are rising. Fertiliser prices are climbing, putting pressure on agriculture and food supply systems. Economists warn that prolonged disruption could dent global growth this year. India faces this shock acutely. The country imports around 85–90 per cent of its crude oil requirements. A significant share of these supplies traditionally moves through Hormuz-linked routes. LPG supplies are also under strain, as India depends heavily on imports from Gulf producers. Price volatility and delivery delays are adding pressure on households and industry. Lo and behold, the geopolitical tension triggered by the Israel-Iran war has dropped bombshells on the GST bonanza by dampening demand momentum, set to give a jolt to the manufacturing sector. Yet this difficult moment also presents a strategic opening. With decisive action, India can turn disruption into an accelerator for energy security and self-reliance — advancing faster toward Viksit Bharat and long-term resilience. Also Read: 'Strait of Hormuz only closed for...': Araghchi says Iran ready to take war as far as necessary So, 5 game-changing opportunities India must seize now to turn global energy shock into rapid progress toward Atmanirbhar Energy. 1. Break free from Middle East oil reliance: India has historically sourced a large portion of its crude imports from the Middle East, though supplier diversification has improved in recent years. Expanding procurement from the US, Russia, Latin America, and Africa can further reduce geographic risk. At the same time, boosting domestic exploration and accelerating renewable deployment will strengthen long-term energy security. The present crisis underscores that energy resilience is a strategic necessity, not just an economic choice. The crisis has made energy security a top national need. Use this drive for strong policy steps. 2. Build massive energy storage as a shock absorber: Renewable energy capacity is expanding rapidly, but solar and wind are intermittent. Grid-scale storage — including battery energy storage systems and pumped hydro — is essential for reliable round-the-clock power. Multiple large storage projects are under development. Expanding storage capacity significantly by 2030 will help stabilise supply, reduce diesel backup dependence, and make renewables more dependable during global fuel disruptions. Also Read: 3. Switch kitchens to clean electric cooking: Over 33 crore households use LPG. We import 60 per cent of our LPG needs. Almost 90 per cent of imports came through Hormuz. Shortages now drive people to induction stoves. Link them to rooftop solar. The PM Surya Ghar scheme grows fast. Over 30 lakh households now benefit from rooftop solar as per recent updates. One family switching saves 5,000 to 8,000 rupees yearly. Nationally, import costs drop by billions. Expand solar cooking trials. Boost subsidies for induction setups. 4. Push hard for Solar & Renewable self-sufficiency: India's installed renewable energy capacity now stands at 263.19 GW. This marks a key milestone, with renewables—including solar, wind, small hydro, and biomass—now making up over 50 per cent of the country's total installed power capacity of about 520.5 GW. Solar alone stands at around 140 GW. The 500 GW non-fossil target by 2030 turns into a survival goal. The crisis speeds up action. Set up more solar modules and inverter plants at home. Add wind and hybrid setups quickly. Every new gigawatt of local solar cuts the tanker needs from Hormuz. This gives true safety and big savings. 5. Race toward full electric transport: The transportation sector accounts for the highest share of petroleum consumption in the country and relies predominantly on fuels derived from imported crude. The shock makes EVs a money-saving must, not just green. To put EVs on the fast track, there is a need to build local battery factories faster. Also, if FAME-III incentives are considered, it could expedite the pace. The government must zero in on rolling out charging points at high speed. Recent data shows millions of EVs on the roads. Schemes have helped sell many lakhs. Every million EVs saves billions in oil imports. They create lakhs of green jobs too. Turn world trouble into India's factory growth story. This Hormuz undoubtedly shocks today. Yet it can spark our best energy future. Act now on these five steps. India will reach energy independence more quickly. Homes cook with clean power. Roads fill with electric rides. Factories run on steady renewables. Import fears fade. Growth holds firm in hard times. Viksit Bharat comes sooner and stronger. The path is open. Seize it. Build an India that stands strong and free for all future generations.

India faces the Hormuz shock acutely. The country imports around 85–90 per cent of its crude oil requirements. A significant share of these supplies traditionally moves through Hormuz-linked routes.

Hormuz Shock to Atmanirbhar energy: 5 game-changing opportunities India must grab now

Delhi looked cloudy with chilling winds rattling around, but Sunday appeared warm when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget 2026 and brought blazing sunshine for “Sunrise Sectors”—rapidly growing technology-driven industries expected to elevate India to a USD 30 trillion economy, and set to add much-needed spin to PM Modi's Viksit Bharat mission. Renewable energy is a premier "Sunrise Sector" in India, characterized by high growth potential with rapid innovation. The Union Budget 2026 has rolled out strong backing to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030. Wearing a handwoven Kancheepuram Silk Sari, honouring Tamil Nadu's age-old weaving legacy as well as underlining the significance of Kanyakumari Nuclear project advances, the Finance Minister has provided substantial allocations for the power and renewable energy sector, including continued support for coal-based generation alongside renewables, hydro and pumped storage, to balance energy security, grid stability and the clean energy transition, aiming at "Make in India" in the clean-tech sector, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/separating-facts-from-fiction-in-india-s-military-awards-system-1769623066255">Separating facts from fiction in India’s military awards system</a>&nbsp;The Union Budget 2026, presented amid global economic uncertainties, lays out a clear roadmap for India's growth, with a sharp focus on the energy sector as a driver of progress. Here are five major key takeaways that underline how the budget supports economic resilience, green initiatives and national self-reliance.&nbsp;<ol><li>Three Kartavyas to Drive Economic Momentum: In her speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined three key Kartavyas to boost the economy, marking the first budget prepared at the Kartavya Bhavan. The first Kartavya aims to accelerate and sustain economic growth by enhancing productivity and competitiveness while building resilience against volatile global dynamics. The second Kartavya focuses on fulfilling the aspirations of people and building their capacity, making them strong partners in India's path to prosperity and Viksit Bharat. The third Kartavya aligns with PM Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas', ensuring inclusive development. Across these priorities, the power and energy sector emerges as a pivotal force, enabling Aatmanirbhar Bharat and positioning India as a leader in the global supply chain. The budget aggressively advances the technology sector by launching India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 with a Rs 40,000 crore outlay. This next phase shifts emphasis to end-to-end semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment and materials production, full-stack Indian intellectual property design, and fortified supply chains. It also integrates AI in public services and builds a skilled workforce through industry-led research and training centres, aiming to establish India as a global tech hub and reduce import dependence in critical electronics.</li><li>Strong Push for Energy Transition and Security On energy transition and security, the budget extends the basic customs duty exemption for capital goods used in batteries and battery energy storage systems. The Finance Minister also proposed an outlay of Rs 20,000 crore over the next five years for Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technologies to scale up and achieve higher readiness levels in end-use applications across five sectors, including power. This move will aid India's green and renewable energy mission by cutting emissions from hard-to-abate industries, promoting cleaner power generation and supporting the shift to low-carbon pathways. By investing in CCUS, the government aims to enhance energy efficiency, lower dependence on imported fuels and meet climate goals, paving the way for sustainable industrial growth.</li><li>Long-Term Relief for Nuclear Power Projects: The budget extends the basic customs duty exemption on imports of goods required for nuclear power projects until 2035, covering all plants regardless of capacity. This step will bolster India's green energy mission and net-zero ambitions by providing policy stability, reducing project costs and encouraging investments in nuclear capacity. Nuclear power, as a clean and reliable source, will help diversify the energy mix, cut carbon emissions and ensure round-the-clock power supply, aligning with the 500 GW non-fossil target by 2030 and the broader goal of net-zero by 2070.</li><li>Incentive for Biogas-Blended Fuels: Another key measure excludes the entire value of biogas while calculating the Central Excise duty payable on biogas-blended CNG. This incentive will aid India's green energy transition by making blended fuels more affordable, encouraging wider adoption in transport and industry. By promoting biogas blending, the budget supports waste-to-energy initiatives, reduces methane emissions from organic waste and cuts reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to cleaner air, rural job creation and a circular economy.</li><li>Robust Support for Renewable and Green Energy Growth: The government has rolled out robust policies for green energy, with the renewable sector expanding from 76 GW in 2014 to over 250 GW by 2025. India now ranks fourth globally in wind, solar and overall renewable capacity, overtaking Japan as the world’s third-largest solar producer. Investments reached Rs 2 lakh crore in 2025 alone, and the renewable energy share in power generation is set to climb from 18 per cent in 2022 to 44 per cent by 2030. The Union Budget 2026-27 prioritizes green energy as a core area, with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's allocation rising significantly to Rs 265.49 billion. Emphasis remains on solar through schemes like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and PM-KUSUM, alongside nuclear energy expansion, the SHANTI Bill for safe atomic integration and boosts to green manufacturing.</li></ol>In essence, the Union Budget 2026 strikes a fine balance between immediate economic needs and long-term sustainability, with the energy sector at its heart. By backing renewables, nuclear and clean technologies, it not only drives growth but also cements India's role in the global fight against climate change. As the nation marches towards Viksit Bharat, these measures promise a brighter, greener future for all and signify India’s premier climate momentum of One Sun, One World and One Grid. &nbsp;

The Union Budget 2026, presented amid global economic uncertainties, lays out a clear roadmap for Indias growth, with a sharp focus on the energy sector as a driver of progress.

Delhi looked cloudy with chilling winds rattling around, but Sunday appeared warm when Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget 2026 and brought blazing sunshine for “Sunrise Sectors”—rapidly growing technology-driven industries expected to elevate India to a USD 30 trillion economy, and set to add much-needed spin to PM Modi's Viksit Bharat mission. Renewable energy is a premier "Sunrise Sector" in India, characterized by high growth potential with rapid innovation. The Union Budget 2026 has rolled out strong backing to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil capacity by 2030. Wearing a handwoven Kancheepuram Silk Sari, honouring Tamil Nadu's age-old weaving legacy as well as underlining the significance of Kanyakumari Nuclear project advances, the Finance Minister has provided substantial allocations for the power and renewable energy sector, including continued support for coal-based generation alongside renewables, hydro and pumped storage, to balance energy security, grid stability and the clean energy transition, aiming at "Make in India" in the clean-tech sector, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. ALSO READ: Separating facts from fiction in India’s military awards system The Union Budget 2026, presented amid global economic uncertainties, lays out a clear roadmap for India's growth, with a sharp focus on the energy sector as a driver of progress. Here are five major key takeaways that underline how the budget supports economic resilience, green initiatives and national self-reliance. Three Kartavyas to Drive Economic Momentum: In her speech, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined three key Kartavyas to boost the economy, marking the first budget prepared at the Kartavya Bhavan. The first Kartavya aims to accelerate and sustain economic growth by enhancing productivity and competitiveness while building resilience against volatile global dynamics. The second Kartavya focuses on fulfilling the aspirations of people and building their capacity, making them strong partners in India's path to prosperity and Viksit Bharat. The third Kartavya aligns with PM Modi's vision of 'Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas', ensuring inclusive development. Across these priorities, the power and energy sector emerges as a pivotal force, enabling Aatmanirbhar Bharat and positioning India as a leader in the global supply chain. The budget aggressively advances the technology sector by launching India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) 2.0 with a Rs 40,000 crore outlay. This next phase shifts emphasis to end-to-end semiconductor manufacturing, including equipment and materials production, full-stack Indian intellectual property design, and fortified supply chains. It also integrates AI in public services and builds a skilled workforce through industry-led research and training centres, aiming to establish India as a global tech hub and reduce import dependence in critical electronics. Strong Push for Energy Transition and Security On energy transition and security, the budget extends the basic customs duty exemption for capital goods used in batteries and battery energy storage systems. The Finance Minister also proposed an outlay of Rs 20,000 crore over the next five years for Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) technologies to scale up and achieve higher readiness levels in end-use applications across five sectors, including power. This move will aid India's green and renewable energy mission by cutting emissions from hard-to-abate industries, promoting cleaner power generation and supporting the shift to low-carbon pathways. By investing in CCUS, the government aims to enhance energy efficiency, lower dependence on imported fuels and meet climate goals, paving the way for sustainable industrial growth. Long-Term Relief for Nuclear Power Projects: The budget extends the basic customs duty exemption on imports of goods required for nuclear power projects until 2035, covering all plants regardless of capacity. This step will bolster India's green energy mission and net-zero ambitions by providing policy stability, reducing project costs and encouraging investments in nuclear capacity. Nuclear power, as a clean and reliable source, will help diversify the energy mix, cut carbon emissions and ensure round-the-clock power supply, aligning with the 500 GW non-fossil target by 2030 and the broader goal of net-zero by 2070. Incentive for Biogas-Blended Fuels: Another key measure excludes the entire value of biogas while calculating the Central Excise duty payable on biogas-blended CNG. This incentive will aid India's green energy transition by making blended fuels more affordable, encouraging wider adoption in transport and industry. By promoting biogas blending, the budget supports waste-to-energy initiatives, reduces methane emissions from organic waste and cuts reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to cleaner air, rural job creation and a circular economy. Robust Support for Renewable and Green Energy Growth: The government has rolled out robust policies for green energy, with the renewable sector expanding from 76 GW in 2014 to over 250 GW by 2025. India now ranks fourth globally in wind, solar and overall renewable capacity, overtaking Japan as the world’s third-largest solar producer. Investments reached Rs 2 lakh crore in 2025 alone, and the renewable energy share in power generation is set to climb from 18 per cent in 2022 to 44 per cent by 2030. The Union Budget 2026-27 prioritizes green energy as a core area, with the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy's allocation rising significantly to Rs 265.49 billion. Emphasis remains on solar through schemes like PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana and PM-KUSUM, alongside nuclear energy expansion, the SHANTI Bill for safe atomic integration and boosts to green manufacturing. In essence, the Union Budget 2026 strikes a fine balance between immediate economic needs and long-term sustainability, with the energy sector at its heart. By backing renewables, nuclear and clean technologies, it not only drives growth but also cements India's role in the global fight against climate change. As the nation marches towards Viksit Bharat, these measures promise a brighter, greener future for all and signify India’s premier climate momentum of One Sun, One World and One Grid.

The Union Budget 2026, presented amid global economic uncertainties, lays out a clear roadmap for India's growth, with a sharp focus on the energy sector as a driver of progress.

Union Budget 2026: Three ‘Kartavyas’ drive Sunrise Industries and Energy Security – 5 must-know takeaways

Amid mounting global tensions from ongoing wars, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Middle East flashpoints, coupled with rising geopolitical rivalries, the world order faces severe disruption. At the same time, the high-altitude Davos World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026, held in freezing cold, sees world leaders coming together to seek lasting peace and growth for all. They aim to build economic strength for a common future. Leaders are ready to sign agreements running into trillions of dollars to tackle these challenges. As global warming and damage to nature grow, putting health and basic services at risk, the focus on clean energy sources has reached a key stage, grabbing worldwide notice and sparked urgent debates. Non-fossil fuels are now central to plans for a safer planet. India's role at the Davos WEF 2026, which began in January and ends on January 23, drew sharp attention. The country pushed hard for more renewable energy, guided by the idea of One Earth, One Family, One Future. This vision underlined India's call for joint action on green growth.<h2>Minister's Clean Call</h2>Union Minister Pralhad Joshi called on world investors to join India's fast push for clean energy at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos. In the session on "Resilient Infrastructure for Growth", he shared India's story of large-scale work with strong systems. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, India has reached 267 GW of non-fossil fuel power by December 2025. The nation is on course to hit its 2030 climate and energy goals. This progress rests on solid rules, home-grown production, updated power grids, storage options, and new plans for geothermal and nuclear power. Joshi stressed the call for steady funds, mixed financing, and closer ties between governments, businesses, and global banks to drive a fair and lasting energy change worldwide.&nbsp;<h2>CEO Ties Strengthen</h2>In Davos, India's talks with top global company heads showed their strong wish to invest in clean energy back home. This has lifted India's place on the world stage. Stable rules and a welcoming setup for funds, led by Narendra Modi, have built trust among those putting in money. India now stands as a key link in world supply lines for clean and renewable power. Even in times of world economic dips and broken supply chains, India has sped up its rise by adding strength and skills with an eye on the future. The country is seen as a reliable spot for world funds, with sure gains, clear policies, and chances for new ideas, growth, and lasting worth.&nbsp;<h2>States’ Bold Pitch</h2>Back home, India used the Davos stage to highlight its own big project plans, with Maharashtra leading the way early on. State teams worked to draw in funds and tie-ups for growth. The Maharashtra government inked 19 pacts worth Rs 14.5 lakh crore, set to create over 15 lakh jobs. These cover areas from everyday goods and transport to eco-friendly steel and online setups. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met with firms like Coca-Cola, Antora Energy, and Brookfield in direct talks. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu used the forum to say India could climb from the fourth-biggest economy to number one by 2047 if it acts now. His words aimed to show India as a steady growth tale, while much of Davos worried about world unrest. The Adani Group laid out a $66 billion spending plan for Maharashtra, adding to the state's draw for large funds in key fields.&nbsp;Notably, Karnataka's team linked up with ReNew Power, which handles solar, wind, and mixed energy works. New York-based Xylem showed interest in building a plant to treat wastewater in the state. Octopus Energy, focused on updating power networks, also talked with Karnataka officials. On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh locked in deals worth Rs 9,000 crore at Davos, targeting clean power, smart tech like AI, and defence making. The Jharkhand government also signed a pact with Tata Steel for over Rs 11,000 crore, boosting the state's industrial base.&nbsp;Overall, Davos 2026 boosted India's image as a leader in energy shifts and investment. With climate risks growing, the focus on renewables fits the global need. India's story of scale and strength, shared at the forum, draws partners for a shared path ahead. As deals flow in, the country steps up its role in a world seeking balance. This meet could spark real changes, from job creation to green tech, aiding India's long goals and vision of Viksit Bharat.&nbsp;Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

India pushed hard for more renewable energy, guided by the idea of One Earth, One Family, One Future. This vision underlined Indias call for joint action on green growth.

Amid mounting global tensions from ongoing wars, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Middle East flashpoints, coupled with rising geopolitical rivalries, the world order faces severe disruption. At the same time, the high-altitude Davos World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026, held in freezing cold, sees world leaders coming together to seek lasting peace and growth for all. They aim to build economic strength for a common future. Leaders are ready to sign agreements running into trillions of dollars to tackle these challenges. As global warming and damage to nature grow, putting health and basic services at risk, the focus on clean energy sources has reached a key stage, grabbing worldwide notice and sparked urgent debates. Non-fossil fuels are now central to plans for a safer planet. India's role at the Davos WEF 2026, which began in January and ends on January 23, drew sharp attention. The country pushed hard for more renewable energy, guided by the idea of One Earth, One Family, One Future. This vision underlined India's call for joint action on green growth. Minister's Clean Call Union Minister Pralhad Joshi called on world investors to join India's fast push for clean energy at the World Economic Forum 2026 in Davos. In the session on "Resilient Infrastructure for Growth", he shared India's story of large-scale work with strong systems. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance, India has reached 267 GW of non-fossil fuel power by December 2025. The nation is on course to hit its 2030 climate and energy goals. This progress rests on solid rules, home-grown production, updated power grids, storage options, and new plans for geothermal and nuclear power. Joshi stressed the call for steady funds, mixed financing, and closer ties between governments, businesses, and global banks to drive a fair and lasting energy change worldwide. CEO Ties Strengthen In Davos, India's talks with top global company heads showed their strong wish to invest in clean energy back home. This has lifted India's place on the world stage. Stable rules and a welcoming setup for funds, led by Narendra Modi, have built trust among those putting in money. India now stands as a key link in world supply lines for clean and renewable power. Even in times of world economic dips and broken supply chains, India has sped up its rise by adding strength and skills with an eye on the future. The country is seen as a reliable spot for world funds, with sure gains, clear policies, and chances for new ideas, growth, and lasting worth. States’ Bold Pitch Back home, India used the Davos stage to highlight its own big project plans, with Maharashtra leading the way early on. State teams worked to draw in funds and tie-ups for growth. The Maharashtra government inked 19 pacts worth Rs 14.5 lakh crore, set to create over 15 lakh jobs. These cover areas from everyday goods and transport to eco-friendly steel and online setups. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met with firms like Coca-Cola, Antora Energy, and Brookfield in direct talks. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu used the forum to say India could climb from the fourth-biggest economy to number one by 2047 if it acts now. His words aimed to show India as a steady growth tale, while much of Davos worried about world unrest. The Adani Group laid out a $66 billion spending plan for Maharashtra, adding to the state's draw for large funds in key fields. Notably, Karnataka's team linked up with ReNew Power, which handles solar, wind, and mixed energy works. New York-based Xylem showed interest in building a plant to treat wastewater in the state. Octopus Energy, focused on updating power networks, also talked with Karnataka officials. On the other hand, Uttar Pradesh locked in deals worth Rs 9,000 crore at Davos, targeting clean power, smart tech like AI, and defence making. The Jharkhand government also signed a pact with Tata Steel for over Rs 11,000 crore, boosting the state's industrial base. Overall, Davos 2026 boosted India's image as a leader in energy shifts and investment. With climate risks growing, the focus on renewables fits the global need. India's story of scale and strength, shared at the forum, draws partners for a shared path ahead. As deals flow in, the country steps up its role in a world seeking balance. This meet could spark real changes, from job creation to green tech, aiding India's long goals and vision of Viksit Bharat. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

India pushed hard for more renewable energy, guided by the idea of One Earth, One Family, One Future. This vision underlined India's call for joint action on green growth.

Davos WEF 2026: From 267 GW Milestone to Global Deals – India's Renewable Surge Steals the Show, Here’s Why

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