New Delhi: India’s drive towards achieving Net Zero by 2070 gained fresh momentum as Union Minister of State for New and Renewable Energy Shripad Yesso Naik urged scientists, startups, researchers, and industry leaders to make India a global hub for green hydrogen innovation.
He was addressing the valedictory session of the first Green Hydrogen R&D Conference, organised under the National Green Hydrogen Mission by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). The two-day conference brought together leading minds to chart India’s path toward a clean, secure, and self-reliant energy future.
Green Hydrogen at the Core of Net Zero Goals
Naik said green hydrogen lies at the heart of India’s energy transition. It promises to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors, reduce import dependence, and open new trade opportunities.
Through the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India aims to position itself not only as a consumer but also as a global leader in hydrogen innovation, manufacturing, and deployment.
Strengthening Research and Development
MNRE has supported over 200 R&D projects in renewable energy, fuel cells, hydrogen, and storage technologies. Dedicated funds, testing facilities, and incubation programmes are enabling Indian researchers to turn ideas into scalable solutions.
“This conference reflects our resolve to turn laboratories into launch pads and startups into global champions,” Naik said.
Wide-Ranging Deliberations
The two-day event featured technical sessions and discussions on cutting-edge production methods, storage challenges, transport solutions, and fuel-cell applications. Experts also addressed governance frameworks, prototyping, commercialization, and infrastructure.
Special sessions encouraged long-term research, while roundtables focused on safety, new applications, and testing infrastructure, underscoring the importance of collaborative innovation.
Empowering Young Researchers and Startups
Naik emphasised that research must move beyond academia into pilots and commercial deployment. Congratulating startups and young innovators, he said their energy and ideas reflect the spirit of a developed India by 2047.
The launch of a call for proposals for hydrogen startups during the conference marked a step toward reducing barriers and fast-tracking innovation.
Driving Growth and Competitiveness
Naik said the mission goes beyond clean energy. It will drive industrial competitiveness, create high-value jobs, and strengthen India’s position in the global hydrogen economy.
“India’s leadership in green hydrogen will make our industries future-ready against global carbon regulations,” he noted.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities
Acknowledging hurdles in research and commercialization, Naik expressed confidence in India’s scientists and entrepreneurs. With strong R&D infrastructure, supportive policies, and international partnerships, he said India is ready to turn challenges into opportunities.
Strong Participation and Support
The conference saw 1,347 registrations, 17 technical sessions, and a dedicated startup exhibition. Officials from MNRE, SECI, and NISE highlighted India’s opportunity to scale electrolyser technology, expand renewable capacity, and build mentoring ecosystems for startups.
NISE will act as the implementing agency for startup support under the Mission, forging partnerships to strengthen India’s hydrogen ecosystem.
