Q15.How can India achieve energy independence through clean technology by 2047? How can biotechnology play a crucial role in this endeavour?

Achieving energy independence by 2047 means meeting India's energy demands primarily from domestic, clean sources, reducing reliance on fossil fuel imports. This aligns with sustainable development goals and global climate commitments.

• Diversification into major clean energy sources like solar, wind, hydro, nuclear, and green hydrogen is crucial.
• Policy support through PLI schemes, increased R&D investment, grid modernization, and advanced energy storage solutions are vital enablers.

• Biofuels: Production of 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation biofuels from biomass and algae.
• Waste-to-Energy: Efficient conversion of agricultural and municipal waste into energy.
• Carbon Capture: Utilizing microbes and algae for effective carbon capture and utilization.
• Efficiency: Bio-sensors and bio-catalysts can enhance industrial energy efficiency.

Addressing challenges like funding, infrastructure, technology transfer, and skilled workforce development requires robust R&D, international collaboration, and public-private partnerships to accelerate deployment.

A multi-pronged strategy integrating diverse clean technologies with biotechnology's innovations is essential for India's sustainable energy future by 2047.