UPSC Mains GS Paper II & III Questions

GS Paper II – International Relations

Q1. India-U.S. energy cooperation is emerging as a vital pillar of their strategic partnership. Discuss its significance in the context of climate goals, economic resilience, and technology transfer.
 (15 marks)

Introduction:

The India-U.S. energy partnership has expanded from oil and gas trade to clean energy, green hydrogen, and critical mineral supply chains. With the twin challenges of climate change and energy security, both countries recognize the need for strategic and technological collaboration to shape a sustainable future.

Body:

A. Importance of Energy Cooperation

1. Achieving Climate Goals:

• India’s renewable energy targets: 500 GW by 2030.
  
  
• S. can support through:
  
  
  • Investment in solar, wind, and storage.
    
    
  • Joint research on green hydrogen and carbon capture.
    
    

2. Strengthening Economic Resilience:

• Diversifying critical mineral supply chains (lithium, cobalt) via partnerships in Africa and Latin America.
  
  
• S. investment in Indian clean energy companies promotes job creation and energy independence.
  
  

3. Technology Transfer & Innovation:

• Shared R&D in advanced solar PV, battery chemistries, and smart grids.
  
  
• S.-India Climate and Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership promotes innovation and deployment.
  
  

B. Strategic Dimensions

1. Energy Security as Geopolitical Lever:

• Reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports.
  
  
• Counters China’s dominance in clean energy tech and mineral refining.
  
  

2. Nuclear Energy Collaboration:

• Revival of India-U.S. civil nuclear agreement for SMRs and next-gen reactors.
  
  
• India aims to install 20 GW nuclear capacity by 2030 with U.S. tech support.
  
  

3. Multilateral Energy Platforms:

• India and U.S. can lead initiatives in:
  
  
  • International Solar Alliance (ISA)
    
    
  • Minerals Security Partnership (MSP)
    
    
  • Global Biofuels Alliance
    
    

C. Challenges to Address

• Regulatory and financing bottlenecks.
  
  
• Need for transparent pricing and sustainable supply agreements.
  
  
• Technology access must ensure affordability and scalability for Indian conditions.
  
  

Conclusion:

India-U.S. energy cooperation is not just about bilateral trade—it is about building global resilience, supporting a just energy transition, and reinforcing climate diplomacy. With mutual trust, long-term frameworks, and inclusive innovation, the energy partnership can be the cornerstone of a sustainable and strategic 21st-century relationship.