Academic Writing Final Assesement

India's Progress Towards Sustainable Development Goal

Affordable and Clean Energy

Introduction:
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a universal call to action to end
poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030. Goal 7,
"Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all,"
emphasizes the critical role of energy in achieving sustainable development.
This essay explores India's progress in relation to SDG 7, focusing on the
nation's efforts to provide affordable and clean energy solutions to its growing
population.

India's Energy Landscape

India is one of the fastest-growing economies globally, and its energy demands
have surged in tandem with economic growth and urbanization. The country has
made significant strides in expanding its energy infrastructure, adopting a mix
of conventional and renewable sources. Key factors influencing India's energy
landscape include a rising population, increasing urbanization, and the need for
energy security.

Renewable Energy Initiatives

India has made substantial investments in renewable energy to address
environmental concerns and reduce dependency on fossil fuels. The
government's ambitious target is to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy
capacity by 2022, with a further goal of 40% of total energy capacity from
renewables by 2030.
Solar Energy
Solar energy has been a focal point of India's renewable energy push. The
country has become a global leader in solar capacity installation. The
International Solar Alliance (ISA), headquartered in India, aims to promote
solar energy and reduce reliance on non-renewable sources. Initiatives like the
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM-KUSUM)
have encouraged the adoption of solar energy in the agricultural sector,
contributing to sustainable development in rural areas
.

Wind Energy
India has also made strides in harnessing wind energy, with the installation of
wind turbines across the country. Various states have implemented policies to
promote wind energy projects, contributing to the overall renewable energy
capacity. The government's focus on offshore wind energy projects further
underscores its commitment to a clean energy transition.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Despite these achievements, India faces challenges in achieving universal
access to affordable and clean energy. Limited access to electricity in some
rural areas, the financial viability of renewable projects, and the intermittency of
renewable sources are persistent issues. However, the government's emphasis
on innovative financing models, policy reforms, and international collaborations
offers opportunities to overcome these challenges.

Conclusion:
India's progress towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 7
demonstrates the nation's commitment to a sustainable and inclusive energy
future. By prioritizing renewable energy sources, implementing supportive
policies, and engaging in international collaborations, India is paving the way
for a cleaner and more affordable energy landscape. Continued efforts,
innovation, and partnerships will be crucial to addressing challenges and
ensuring sustainable energy access for all, aligning with the broader vision of
the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.