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GS Paper: GS3-13.Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc:

  • [pib]  Role of the Coal Controller’s Organisation (CCO)

    Why in the news?

    The Coal Controller’s Organisation (CCO) recently held inspections of Coal Mines to ensure the accuracy of Coal class and grade declarations.

    Coal Sector in Indian Economy:

    • The Indian coal sector is one of the 8 core sectors contributing heavily to the economic development of India.
    • In India, there are 4 grades of coal available: Lignite, Bituminous, Sub-Bituminous, and Anthracite, and out of which Anthracite is the highest grade of coal.
    • More than 70% of Coal reserves in India are mainly found in the South-Central region i.e. in Orissa, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.
    • India is the second-largest producer of Anthracite globally after China.
    • The mining sector accounts for more than 2% contribution to the total GDP of India.
    • India, had a global share of Coal production nearly 9%.
    • India’s share of coal in major imports in FY 2023 was estimated at 8%.
    • India exports coking coal to neighboring countries, including Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.

    About Coal Controller’s Organisation (CCO)

    • The CCO was established in 1975 under the Coal Mines (Conservation and Development) Act, 1974.
    • It operates under the Ministry of Coal.
    • It is headquartered in Kolkata and field offices at Dhanbad, Ranchi, Bilaspur, Nagpur, Sambalpur, Kothagudem, and Asansol.

    Functions of CCO

    • Regulatory Oversight: Regulates coal industry activities, ensuring compliance with laws and policies.
    • Inspections: It conducts inspections of collieries to ensure the accuracy of coal class and grade declarations under the Colliery Control Rules, 2004 (Amended in 2021).
    • Quality Control: Establishes and enforces standards for coal quality through testing and inspection.
    • Grading and Classification: Categorizes coal into grades based on quality and intended use.
    • Licensing and Permissions: Issues licenses and permits to coal producers, traders, and consumers.
    • Data Collection and Analysis: Collects and analyzes data on coal production, consumption, and market trends.
    • Research and Development: Conducts or sponsors R&D to improve mining techniques and coal quality.
    • Conservation and Sustainability: Formulates policies for coal resource conservation and sustainable development.
    • Enforcement and Compliance: Ensures compliance with coal-related regulations through inspections and enforcement actions.

    Grades of Coal in India

    The gradation of coal is based on-

    1. Non-Coking Coal: Based on Gross Calorific Value (GCV).
    2. Coking Coal: Ash Content
    3. Semi Coking /Weakly Coking Coal: Ash plus Moisture Content

    What is Coke?

    • Coke is a solid carbonaceous material derived from heating coal in the absence of air.
    • It is a porous, hard, black substance with a high carbon content and few impurities.
    • Coke is primarily used as a fuel and as a reducing agent in the process of smelting iron ore to produce steel in a blast furnace.

    Types of Coal based on Coking ability

    1. Non-Coking Coal: Non-coking coal, also known as thermal coal, is coal that does not have the ability to undergo conversion into coke when heated in the absence of air. It is primarily used for power generation in thermal power plants, as well as for other industrial applications such as cement production and heating.
    2. Coking Coal: Coking coal, also known as metallurgical coal, is a type of coal that possesses the necessary properties to undergo conversion into coke when heated in the absence of air. Coking coal is characterized by its high carbon content, low ash content, and ability to form a strong, porous coke when heated.
    3. Semi Coking / Weakly Coking Coal: Semi-coking or weakly coking coal is a coal type that falls between non-coking coal and coking coal in terms of its properties. While it does not fully qualify as coking coal due to certain limitations in its coking properties, it exhibits some degree of coking ability when heated.

     

    PYQ:

    [2022] In India, what is the role of the Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO)?

    1. CCO is the major source of Coal Statistics in Government of India.
    2. It monitors progress of development of Captive Coal/Lignite blocks.
    3. It hears any objection to the Government’s notification relating to acquisition of coal-bearing areas.
    4. It ensures that coal mining companies deliver the coal to end users in the prescribed time.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1, 2 and 3

    (b) 3 and 4 only

    (c) 1 and 2 only

    (d) 1, 2 and 4

  • Bengaluru Airport bags 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards

    Why in the news?

    • The Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru has been honored as the Best Regional Airport in India and South Asia at the esteemed 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards.
    • Since its inauguration in 2023, KIA Terminal-2 has garnered multiple accolades, including the UNESCO Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airport

    About Skytrax World Airport Awards

    • The Skytrax World Airport Awards are annual awards, established in 1999 presented by Skytrax, a UK-based consultancy specializing in airline and airport research.
    • Since then, it has become a globally recognized authority in airline and airport research, known for its comprehensive passenger surveys and prestigious awards.
    • These awards are considered one of the most prestigious recognitions in the aviation industry and are often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry.”
      • Various categories of Award: Best Airport, Best Regional Airport, Best Airport Terminal, and Best Airport Staff, among others.

    Evaluation Criteria:

    • Rigorous evaluations of various aspects, including check-in procedures, arrivals, transfers, shopping facilities, security, immigration processes, and departures.
    • Feedback from airport customers of over 100 nationalities across 550 airports worldwide during a seven-month survey period contributed to the assessment.

    Winners of the 2024 Awards

    • Doha’s Hamad International Airport clinched the top spot, dethroning Singapore Changi Airport, which had held the title for 12 consecutive years.
    • Hamad International Airport is praised for its architectural significance and luxurious amenities, covering an area equivalent to 75 football fields.
    • Seoul Incheon Airport secured third place overall and was recognized as the most family-friendly airport.

    Performance of key Indian Airports:

    • Delhi Airport retained its position at 36th place in the overall rankings.
    • Mumbai Airport saw a slight decline, dropping to 95th place from its previous rank of 84.
    • Bengaluru Airport experienced a notable improvement, climbing 10 ranks to 59th place compared to last year’s 69th position.
    • Hyderabad Airport also showed improvement, rising to 61st place from its previous rank of 65th.
    • Goa’s Manohar International Airport secured the 92nd spot in the overall rankings.

  • KAVACH Anti-Collision System

    The Supreme Court has acknowledged and appreciated the implementation of the indigenous anti-collision system KAVACH.

    What is KAVACH?

    • Kavach, an automatic train protection (ATP) system, was initially named Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS).
      • Development commenced in 2011 as Indian Railways and Research Designs & Standards Organisation (RDSO) sought a domestically developed ATP system.
      • B. Rajaram, credited with developing the Skybus Metro system, played a key role in Kavach’s development.
      • Field trials began in 2014, refining the system’s specification.
    • Final approval was granted in 2019, certifying Kavach for compliance with Safety Integrity level 4 (SIL-4) operations.

    Working Mechanism:

    • Kavach comprises trackside Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags, onboard locomotive equipment, and radio infrastructure.
    • It communicates via radio, enabling real-time train monitoring.
    • Drivers receive alerts, and automatic braking is triggered to prevent collisions.
    • Kavach uses various data inputs like location, direction, and time to ensure safety.
    • Event recorders retain records of interactions and incidents for analysis.
    • Alerts and automatic braking ensure an immediate response to hazardous situations.

    How does it help prevent collision?

    • Kavach is designed to alert the locomotive pilot if they fail to notice a ‘red signal’ and continue at a speed that would surpass the signal.
    • If the pilot does not slow down below 15 kmph, Kavach automatically applies the brakes, bringing the train to a halt.

    Issues with KAVACH

    • High Deployment Cost: Implementing Kavach costs ₹50 lakh per kilometer for the Indian Railways.
    • Low Coverage: Currently, Kavach covers only 1,500 kilometers of rail routes, a small fraction of the total 68,000-kilometer network (as of November 2023).
      • Expanding its coverage, particularly on high-density routes, remains a formidable challenge.

    PYQ:

    [2015] With reference to bio-toilets used by the Indian Railways, consider the following statements:

    1. The decomposition of human waste in the biotoilets is initiated by a fungal inoculum.
    2. Ammonia and water vapour are the only end products in this decomposition which are released into the atmosphere.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    (a) 1 only
    (b) 2 only
    (c) Both 1 and 2
    (d) Neither 1 nor 2

  • Centre Directs Gas-Based Power Plants To Begin Operations Amid Rising Summer Demand

    Why in the News? 

    • The Central government has issued directives under Section 11 of the Electricity Act, of 2003 to all gas-based generating stations to ensure Maximum Power Generation.
      • This section empowers the Central/state government to specify the operation of generating stations in extraordinary circumstances.

    Why India Needs Gas-based Plants?

    • Electricity Demand in India: India faces a surge in electricity demand, especially during the upcoming summer season. The government has instructed gas-based power plants to commence operations to address this demand surge.
    • Optimizing Power Availability: The directive aims to optimize power availability from gas-based generating stations during the anticipated high-demand period, similar to measures taken for imported-coal-based power plants.
    • Ideal Transitioning Fuel: Gas-based power plants can be an ideal transition fuel for the shift from coal-based generation to renewable energy in the Indian power sector. They can provide the necessary flexibility and reliability to the grid as the share of renewable energy increases.
    • Targets: The Indian government has set a target of increasing the share of non-fossil fuel, especially renewables, in power generation to 50% by 2030, and gas-based power plants can play a crucial role in achieving this target.

     

    Challenges in building Gas-based Infrastructure:

    • Underutilized Capacity: Despite having considerable capacity, gas-based generating stations remain underutilized, primarily due to commercial considerations.
    • Non-availability of Affordable Fuel: India’s gas-based power plants are either stranded or operating at sub-optimal levels due to the non-availability of affordable fuel
    • Lack of Domestic Gas Supply: The limited domestic gas supply has forced gas-based power producers to depend on LNG to meet their fuel needs, but the high cost of LNG has increased the variable cost of power, making it difficult to schedule in merit order dispatch
    • Dependence on Imports: With barely half of the current gas consumption coming from local production, dependence on gas-based power plants can only be interim and not a long-term solution.

    Initiatives taken by the Government:

    • Setting up biogas plants: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Government of India, launched the Biogas program to set up biogas plants for various applications, including power generation.
    • Use of gas-based power for peaking and balancing: The government will use some gas-based power to meet the country’s peaking and balancing needs during the summer of 2024.
    • Increasing gas-based power generation: The government wants the share of gas-based power to rise to 15% of India’s total installed power generation capacity.

    Way forward:

    • Diversification of fuel sources: Encourage the exploration and development of domestic gas reserves to reduce reliance on imported gas and mitigate price volatility.
    • Investment in infrastructure: Develop infrastructure for transporting gas efficiently across the country to ensure a steady and reliable supply to power plants.
    • Policy support: Provide long-term policy certainty and incentives for investment in gas-based power generation, including tax breaks, subsidies, and assured purchase agreements.

    Mains PYQ 

    Q  Environmental Impact Assessment studies are increasingly undertaken before a project is cleared by the Government. Discuss the environmental impacts of coal-fired thermal plants located at coal pitheads. (UPSC IAS/2014)

  • How are hydrocarbons extracted from under the ground? | Explained

    Why in the news? 

    The geological processes, extraction methods, and environmental impact of hydrocarbon extraction.

    BACK2BASICS

    Where are Hydrocarbons located?

    • Hydrocarbons originate from plant and animal fossils that were formed by the forces of temperature and weight over millennia.
    • They are mostly found deep underground, in porous rock formations, such as sandstone, limestone, and shale. Hydrocarbons exist in Subterranean rock formations in various forms like natural gas, coal, crude oil, and petroleum, typically found in reservoirs.
    • The primary source of hydrocarbons in underground rocks is kerogen, organic matter deposits originating from lakes, marine ecosystems, or terrestrial ecosystems.
    • Different types of kerogen yield various hydrocarbon products such as waxy oils, oil and gas, light oils, gas, and coal.
    • Petroleum geologists utilize tools and techniques from petroleum geology to evaluate these rocks, assessing factors like porosity and permeability.

    How Hydrocarbons are extracted? 

    The extraction of hydrocarbons, such as oil and gas, has several negative impacts on the environment: 

    • Damage to Marine Life and Ecosystems: The extraction process can lead to the release of toxic substances and chemicals, which can harm marine life and ecosystems. This can lead to the death of fish, birds, and other marine animals, as well as the destruction of habitats.
    • Deforestation and Destruction of Flora: The search for hydrocarbon deposits often involves the clearing of large areas of land, which can lead to deforestation and the destruction of plant life. This can have a significant impact on local ecosystems and biodiversity.
    • Water Pollution: The extraction process can lead to the contamination of groundwater and surface water.
    • Destruction of Fertile Land: The extraction process can destroy fertile land, which can have serious consequences for agriculture and food production. This can lead to soil erosion, desertification, and the loss of biodiversity.

    Renewable sources that can serve as alternatives for hydrocarbons include:

    • Hydroelectricity: This is the most significant renewable energy source at 6% of the global total
    • Solar Energy: Solar power is a promising renewable energy source that can be harnessed using solar panels to convert sunlight into electrical energy. The solar power development sector is the fastest-growing renewable energy sector in the U.S
    • Wind Energy: Wind turbines can generate electricity from wind power, and this technology is becoming increasingly popular and efficient
    • Biomass Energy: Biomass energy can be derived from organic materials such as wood, agricultural waste, and municipal solid waste.
    • Geothermal Energy: Geothermal energy is generated and stored in the Earth’s crust. This energy source can be used for heating, cooling, and electricity generation
    • Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): RNG is a pipeline-quality gas that can be utilized by utilities interchangeably with conventional natural gas. RNG can be produced from methane waste sources such as farm and landfills

    Conclusion: Hydrocarbons, found in subterranean rock formations, are extracted using petroleum geology techniques. Extraction poses environmental risks like marine damage, deforestation, and water pollution. Renewable alternatives include hydroelectric, solar, wind, biomass, geothermal energy, and renewable natural gas.

    Mains PYQ:

    Q Do you think India will meet 50 percent of its energy needs from renewable energy by 2030? Justify your answer. How will the shift of subsidies from fossil fuels to renewables help achieve the above objective? Explain.

  • The ‘import restrictions’ on solar PV cells | Explained

    Context:

    The Finance Minister proposed the ₹19,500 crore PLI scheme in the Union Budget of 2022-23. 

    • This was to scale domestic manufacturing of the entire solar supply chain — from polysilicon to solar modules.
    • The government also introduced a steep 40% customs duty on PV modules and 25% on PV cells.

    BACK2BASICS

    What is the ALMM list?  

    • The Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) is a list of models and manufacturers of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules approved by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) in India.
    • Objective: The ALMM is used to ensure the quality of solar panels and the manufacturer’s reliability for government projects, government-assisted projects, projects under government schemes and programs, and open access and net-metering projects.
    • It is being re-implemented to boost domestic solar manufacturing against China’s dominance in the supply value chain of solar PV.

    Does India rely on Solar PV imports?

    • China’s Dominance in Imports: China is the leading supplier of solar cells and modules to India, accounting for a significant portion of India’s imports. As of January 2023-24, China accounted for 53% of India’s solar cell imports and 63% of solar PV module imports.
    • Manufacturing Capacity Disparity: China holds a dominant position in the manufacturing capacity for various components of solar panels, including polysilicon, wafers, cells, and modules. Rating agency ICRA estimates that China commands over 80% of the manufacturing capacity in these areas.

    Government Initiatives:

    • Notification of ALMM Order: The government initiated efforts to address import dependency in the solar sector by notifying the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) order in January 2019.
    • Introduction of PLI Scheme: The Finance Ministry proposed the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme worth ₹19,500 crore in the Union Budget of 2022-23. This scheme was designed to incentivize domestic manufacturing across the entire solar supply chain, ranging from polysilicon to solar modules.
    • Imposition of Customs Duties on PV Modules and Cells: To further incentivize domestic manufacturing and curb imports, the government introduced steep customs duties on photovoltaic (PV) modules and cells. Initially, a 40% customs duty was imposed on PV modules, and a 25% duty was imposed on PV cells.

    Why is China a leading exporter?

    • Cost-Competitive Manufacturing: China is recognized as the most cost-competitive location for manufacturing all components of the solar PV supply chain.
    • Low Cost of Power: The lower cost of power supplied to the solar PV industry significantly contributes to China’s competitiveness.
    • Growing Domestic Demand: The significant and rapidly growing domestic demand for solar PV products in China has played a crucial role in driving economies of scale.
    • Economies of Scale: China’s large-scale production capacity allows manufacturers to benefit from economies of scale.
    • Continuous Innovation: Chinese government support and the competitive market environment have fostered continuous innovation throughout the solar PV supply chain.

    Future scope for Solar Energy in India:

    • Ambitious Targets:  The target of achieving 500 GW of installed capacity from non-fossil fuels by 2030 underscores the significant role solar energy will play in India’s energy mix.
    • Fastest Growth Rate in Electricity Demand: India accounts for the fastest rate of growth in electricity demand among major economies, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA).
    • Abundant Solar Potential: India possesses abundant solar resources, with an estimated solar power potential of 748.99 GW.

    Conclusion: The ALMM list, PLI scheme, and customs duties aim to boost domestic solar manufacturing in India to counter China’s dominance. With ambitious targets, fast-growing electricity demand, and abundant solar potential, solar energy holds significant promise for India’s energy transition.

    Mains question for practice 

    Q Discuss the initiatives undertaken by the Indian government to promote domestic manufacturing in the solar sector, particularly in light of China’s dominance.

  • [pib] National Green Hydrogen Mission

    Why in the news?

    • The Ministry of New & Renewable Energy has unveiled Guidelines for the implementation of an R&D Scheme under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
    • The scheme aims to catalyze advancements in the production, storage, transportation, and utilization of green hydrogen, with a focus on affordability, efficiency, safety, and reliability.

    Hydrogen Energy: A Backgrounder

    • Hydrogen is an important source of energy since it has zero carbon content and is a non-polluting source of energy in contrast to hydrocarbons that have net carbon content in the range of 75–85 per cent.
    • Hydrogen energy is expected to reduce carbon emissions that are set to jump by 1.5 billion tons in 2021.
    • It has the highest energy content by weight and lowest energy content by volume.
    • As per International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Hydrogen shall make up 6 per cent of total energy consumption by 2050.
    • Hydrogen energy is currently at a nascent stage of development, but has considerable potential for aiding the process of energy transition from hydrocarbons to renewable.

    About National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM)

    • The National Green Hydrogen Mission was launched in January 2023 to make India a ‘global hub’ for using, producing and exporting green hydrogen.
    • Earlier, the National Hydrogen Mission was launched on August 15, 2021, with a view to cutting down carbon emissions and increasing the use of renewable sources of energy.
    • The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) formulates the scheme guidelines for implementation of these missions.

    Key features of the NGHM

    • Power capacity: The mission seeks to promote the development of green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT per annum with an associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW in the country by 2030.
    • Job creation: It envisages an investment of over ₹8 lakh crore and creation of over 6 lakh jobs by 2030.
    • Reducing energy import bill: It will also result in a cumulative reduction in fossil fuel imports of over ₹1 lakh crore and abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
    • Export promotion: The mission will facilitate demand creation, production, utilisation and export of green hydrogen.
    • Incentivization: Under the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition Programme (SIGHT), two distinct financial incentive mechanisms targeting domestic manufacturing of electrolysers and production of green hydrogen will be provided under the mission.
    • Green Hydrogen Hubs: Regions capable of supporting large-scale production and/or utilisation of hydrogen will be identified and developed as Green Hydrogen Hubs.

    Types of Hydrogen

    Hydrogen extraction methods are classified into three types based on their processes: Grey, Blue, and Green.

    1. Green Hydrogen: Green hydrogen is produced through water electrolysis, utilizing electricity generated from renewable energy sources.
    2. Grey Hydrogen: This type of hydrogen is obtained through coal or lignite gasification (black or brown), or by steam methane reformation (SMR) of natural gas or methane (grey). These processes are typically carbon-intensive.
    3. Blue Hydrogen: Blue hydrogen is derived from natural gas or coal gasification, coupled with carbon capture storage (CCS) or carbon capture use (CCU) technologies to mitigate carbon emissions.

     

    PYQ:

    [2010]Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles produce one of the following as “exhaust”:

    (a) NH3

    (b) CH4

    (c) H2O

    (d) H2O2

     

    [2023]With reference to green hydrogen, consider the following statements:

    1. It can be used directly as a fuel for internal combustion.

    2. It can be blended with natural gas and used as fuel for heat or power generation.

    3. It can be used in the hydrogen fuel cell to run vehicles.

    How many of the above statements are correct?

    (a) Only one

    (b) Only two

    (c) All three

    (d) None

     

  • [9 April 2024] The Hindu Op-ed: Indian aviation, a case of air safety at a discount

    PYQ Relevance:

    Mains: 

    Q) Examine the development of Airports in India through joint ventures under Public – Private Partnership (PPP) model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this regard? (UPSC CSE 2017) 

    Q) International civil aviation laws provide all countries complete and exclusive sovereignty over the airspace above their territory. What do you understand by ‘airspace’ What are the implications of these laws on the space above this airspace? Discuss the challenges that this poses and suggest ways to contain the threat. (UPSC CSE 2014) 

    Note4Students: 

    Prelims: International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO);

    Mains: Economy and Infrastructure; Civil Aviation in India; 

    Mentor comments: To put in place long-term efforts for our safe and secure future, we must break down the barriers between ‘Development’ and ‘Humanitarian Response’. Air Transport plays a pivotal role in promoting Economy and Tourism in India. India has an extensive civilian air transportation network and is amongst the fastest-growing aviation markets in the world according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Presently, the Aviation Sector in India is facing serious safety concerns as Airline Management prioritizes commercial interests over passenger safety. 

    Let’s learn. 

    —

    Why in the News?

    The Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA need a more human-centric approach in airline management, addressing pilot shortages, and prioritizing safety over commercial interests is crucial for the Indian aviation sector to thrive.

    Challenges faced by Airline Services in India:

    • Technical and Safety Concerns: The safety of passengers is being gravely compromised due to the non-provision of the Runway End Safety Area. For example,  at Kozhikode’s Karipur Airport (Kerala).
      • Despite reassurances from the Civil Aviation Ministry and the DGCA, safety issues persist, such as the deferred regulations on pilot fatigue.
    • Resource Availability: The land resources needed by AAI [Airports Authority of India] for better landing and avoiding accidents are generally ignored or delayed by state governments.
    • Nexus between private players and government: Lack of Coordination between Airline owners and the Government for the implementation of safety policies needs to be resolved. For example, the present Flight Duty Time Limitations Regulations where the deadline for their implementation was June 1, 2024, were not taken seriously by private players.
    • Pilot Stress: Financial stress on pilots is also highlighted as a risk factor, with examples of past incidents linked to pilot suicide due to personal financial pressures.
      • Recognizing pilots as human beings who require time with their families, the importance of providing two days off per week for pilots is essential to ensure their well-being and maintain aviation safety.
    Global Scenario and System Overseas:

    The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) introduced the Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) as a mandatory requirement due to the significant impact of fatigue on aviation safety. 

    Studies have shown that sleep deprivation and impaired reaction times due to fatigue are major contributors to accidents and incidents. 

    Countries like Japan, Singapore, and the United Kingdom emphasize fatigue management and rest periods for flight crew to mitigate these risks. 

    Pilots in these countries typically have two days off every week to reset their body clock, especially after long-haul flights. 

    Way Forward:

    • Change the Priority: The Indian aviation sector faces critical safety issues due to a lack of prioritization of safety over commercial interests by airline management. The need for a more human-centric approach, addressing pilot shortages, and emphasizing safety is essential for the sector’s success.
    • Need for Humanitarian Code: India should adopt the ICAO Annex 1 Standard which allows experienced Indian pilots abroad to return to India and utilize the present retired pilots for training and checks. 
    • Need for Updating policy implementations: Overcoming corruption, revising outdated rules, and focusing on transparency and brand loyalty are crucial for the sector’s improvement and the success of airline mergers.

  • Why green hydrogen presents both major opportunities, significant challenges

    why in the news? 

    Recently, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has announced a Rs-496-crore (until 2025-26) scheme to support pilot projects that either test the viability of green hydrogen as a vehicle fuel or develop secure supporting infrastructure such as refuelling stations.

    Objecive of MNRE scheme 

    (i) validation of technical feasibility and performance of green hydrogen as a transportation fuel

    (ii) evaluation of the economic viability of green hydrogen-powered vehicles

    (iii) demonstration of safe operation of hydrogen-powered vehicles and refuelling stations.

    About Green , Blue and grey hydrogen

    The significance of hydrogen fuel vehicles, particularly hydrogen internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs)

    • Zero Carbon Emissions: Both hydrogen ICE vehicles and FCEVs produce zero carbon emissions during operation.
    • Energy Efficiency: While research suggests that burning hydrogen in an ICE vehicle may be less energy-efficient than using it in a fuel cell, FCEVs still offer high energy efficiency compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles, particularly those powered by fossil fuels like diesel and petrol.
    • Clean Energy Production: Hydrogen can be produced through various renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.
    • Lightweight and Increased Payload Capacity: Hydrogen FCEVs typically weigh less than battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to the lighter weight of hydrogen and the fuel cell stack compared to EV batteries.
    • Long-haul Freight Applications: Research indicates that long-haul FCEVs can carry freight amounts similar to diesel trucks, while BEVs may suffer from a weight penalty due to heavier batteries.  .
    • Diversification of Energy Sources: Hydrogen fuel vehicles offer a viable alternative to battery electric vehicles, providing diversification in energy sources for transportation.

     Challenges 

    • Storage and Transportation Challenges: Developing specialized cylinders capable of safely storing high-pressure green hydrogen is essential. Existing cylinders designed for compressed natural gas (CNG) are not suitable for hydrogen storage
    • Fuel Costs and Infrastructure: Green hydrogen-powered vehicles face challenges in competing with battery electric vehicles (BEVs) due to higher fuel costs and the need for infrastructure development, including hydrogen refueling stations. The cost of establishing and maintaining hydrogen refueling infrastructure is significant, hindering the widespread adoption of hydrogen FCEVs.
    • Safety Concerns: Hydrogen is highly flammable, necessitating robust safety standards and protocols for handling and storing the fuel at refueling stations.

    Conclusion 

    Green hydrogen offers zero emissions, energy efficiency, and diversification in energy sources for transportation. However, challenges like storage, infrastructure costs, and safety concerns hinder widespread adoption, despite MNRE’s support scheme.

    Mains PYQ

    Q How is efficient and affordable urban mass transport key to the rapid economic development in India? (UPSC IAS/2019)

    Q Discuss in detail the photochemical smog emphasizing its formation, effects and mitigation. Explain the 1999 Gothenburg protocol.(UPSC IAS/2022)

  • Nuclear power is key to development, says study

    Why in the news? 

    A recent report published by  IIM-A suggested that India must prioritize investment in Nuclear energy sector and expand related infrastructure.

    Why India must prioritize investment in the Nuclear energy sector?

    India aims to be a developed country by 2047 and is on track to achieve net zero — or effectively zero-carbon dioxide emissions by 2070. 

    Key findings of the Report: 

    • Current Energy Mix: Solar energy constitutes 16% of India’s installed generation capacity, while coal comprises 49%. Nuclear energy currently comprises only 1.6% of India’s energy mix
    • Significant increase in nuclear power: The best-case scenario shows emissions falling to 0.55 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide by 2070, achieving ‘net zero’. This scenario entails a significant increase in nuclear power capacity, reaching 30 GW by 2030 and 265 GW by 2050.
    • Investment Requirements for Nuclear Energy: Achieving the proposed figures for nuclear energy would necessitate a doubling of investments. India would require an estimated ₹150-200 lakh crore between 2020-2070 to finance the necessary transitions in the energy sector
    • Need technology-based solution: The authors emphasize that achieving net zero emissions requires a combination of technologies rather than a single solution.
    • Transitioning away from coal: Coal is expected to remain a significant component of India’s energy system, serving as the “backbone”. However, transitioning away from coal would require substantial investment  

    What are the Challenges for India’s Goal of Net-Zero Emissions?

    • Uranium Factor: Data by the Central Electricity Authority say solar energy accounts for 16% of India’s installed generation capacity. To achieve these idealistic figures for nuclear energy would require a doubling of investments as well as the assumption that uranium, a critical fuel but restricted by international embargo, is available in necessary quantities.
    • Coal Factor: Coal accounts for 49% of India’s capacity. Coal would likely be the “backbone” of the Indian energy system and if the country has to phase down coal in the next three decades, it would need to build adequate infrastructure for alternative sources such as nuclear power, in addition to flexible grid infrastructure and storage to support the integration of renewable energy.

    Suggested measures by the Report are:

    • Research and Development: Invest in research and development to improve efficiency and reduce costs of renewable energy technologies, as well as advancements in nuclear energy technology.
    • Policy Support: Implement supportive policies and regulations to encourage private sector investment in the energy sector, including streamlined approval processes, tax incentives, and renewable energy mandates.
    • International Cooperation: Engage in diplomatic efforts to secure access to nuclear fuel and address international embargoes, while also collaborating with other countries on research and development in the energy sector.

    Conclusion: India’s path to development by 2047 hinges on prioritizing energy sector investment, as per an IIM-A report. Achieving net zero emissions by 2070, India would need close to ₹150-200 lakh crore between 2020-2070 to finance these transitions.

    Mains PYQ

    Q With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (UPSC IAS/2018)