Topic: Infrastructure: Energy; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment.
5. Despite attempts by the government to cut imports of coal, there has year on year growth in shipments of the fuel. Discuss the causes and measures needed to switch to renewables in light of India’s INDC goals. (250 words)
Reference : The Hindu
Why this question:
India’s thermal coal imports rose 12.6% to nearly 200 million tonnes in 2019, government data reviewed by Reuters showed, reflecting the second straight year of growth in shipments of the fuel despite attempts by the government to cut imports.
Key demand of the question
The question expects us to explain why there has been an increase in the coal imports in India. Further analyse the impacts of increased coal usage on environment. Conclude the answer with measures needed to switch to the Renewable sources of energy in line with India’s INDC goals.
Directive word
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer
Introduction
Give a brief overview of India’s coal usage scenario.
Body
Explain how important is coal for increasing energy needs of India.
Discuss the various reasons for increased import of coal resources.
Discuss the various implications of increased coal usage on environment and climate change.
Finally, talk about the measures needed to switch to Renewable sources of energy
Conclusion
Conclude with a way forward.
