Economic Survey 2024-25: Prioritize development before net zero
The Economic Survey 2024-25 argues against shutting down coal-based power plants, citing a lack of economic rationale. It states that India should focus on becoming a developed country by 2047 before targeting net-zero emissions by 2070. India’s coal-fired power plants, mostly commissioned in the 2010s, still have substantial lifespans. Unlike the US and Europe, which can transition to natural gas, India relies on coal due to its reserves and limited gas availability. While India has…