Topic: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment
5. Harnessing green hydrogen’s potential will play a key role in tackling critical energy challenges and also in ensuring non-fossil fuel-based energy. Discuss. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Easy
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question: The ongoing tensions between Russia and Ukraine have led to the prices of crude oil shooting to $130/barrel, the highest the world has witnessed in over a decade. The rise in prices of oil, natural gas and fertilisers highlights India’s vulnerability to geopolitical sanctions. Green hydrogen is an emerging option that will help reduce India’s vulnerability to such price shocks. This was reiterated by Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari when he drove to Parliament in a hydrogen-powered car.
Key Demand of the question: To write about the potential of green Hydrogen as an eco-friendly fuel and to meet India’s energy demands
Directive word:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by mentioning green hydrogen and its properties that make it a favourable alternative to present day fossil fuels.
Body:
First, write about the concerns regarding India’s energy security and how green hydrogen can play part in this aspect. Also, mention how it will reduce India’s carbon footprint.
Next, mention the steps to promote hydrogen use instead of fossil fuels such as the National Hydrogen Mission being launched to promote Green Hydrogen and the pilot mode of blending hydrogen with CNG for buses in Delhi, various public and private sector initiative etc.
Next, Mention various obstacles to overcome in terms of technology, storage, transportation, new materials research, safety standards etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude by writing a way forward to maximise the benefits of the green hydrogen fuel technology.
