Why in news
- NITI Aayog member advocated for including nuclear energy within green finance frameworks to meet India's long-term clean energy goals.
What is Green Finance in India?
- Financial investments flowing into sustainable development projects, renewable energy, and environmental infrastructure.
- Traditionally restricted to solar, wind, and other non-conventional sources, excluding nuclear power due to legacy waste and safety concerns.
Key Proposals and Targets
- Extending green finance classification to nuclear energy to lower capital costs and attract institutional investors.
- Targeting 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047 alongside building specialised human resource skills.
Why it matters
- Base-load power requirement: Nuclear energy provides stable 24/7 generation compared to intermittent solar and wind sources.
- Capital intensity: High upfront costs require diverse financing instruments beyond regular budgetary support.
Key terms
Base-load Power
The minimum level of electric demand required on a power grid over a 24-hour period.
Green Finance
Funding directed toward environmentally sustainable economic activities and projects.
Prelims facts
- Nuclear energy is being evaluated for inclusion in green financing mechanisms.
Mains discussion
- Examine the viability of nuclear energy in meeting India's net-zero transition and base-load electricity requirements.
Source: Business Standard
Same topic · past papers
UPSC has asked this before
These previous-year questions sit on the same topic. Open one to practise the earlier ask.
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2018 · Q16 · GS III · 15 marks
With growing energy needs should India keep on expanding its nuclear energy programme? Discuss the facts and fears associated with nuclear energy. (250 Words, 15 Marks). -
2023 · Q19 · GS II · 15 marks
'The expansion and strengthening of NATO and a stronger US-Europe strategic partnership works well in India.' What is your opinion about this statement? Give reasons and examples to support your answer. -
2026 · Q100 · General Studies · 2 marks
Consider the following statements about Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI): 1. MPI is calculated using Alkire-Foster methodology. 2. MPI calculated by NITI Aayog has a total of twelve indicators. 3. Maternal Health and Bank Account are common indicators in the MPI of NITI Aayog and MPI of United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Which of the statements given above is/are correct? -
2019 · Q69 · General Studies · 2 marks
In India, which of the following review the independent regulators in sectors like telecommunications, insurance, electricity, etc.? 1. Ad Hoc Committees set up by the Parliament 2. Parliamentary Department Related Standing Committees 3. Finance Commission 4. Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission 5. NITI Aayog Select the correct answer using the code given below -
2018 · Q11 · GS III · 15 marks
How are the principles followed by NITI Aayog different from those followed by the erstwhile planning commission in India?(250 Words, 15 Marks).