APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 26/06/2026

Model answer

Model Answer

Introduction

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), India is projected to account for nearly 25% of global energy demand growth by 2040. As India imports around 85% of its crude oil, fluctuations in global oil prices directly impact inflation, fiscal stability, and economic growth, making energy security a strategic priority.

Body

1. Importance of Energy Security

• Ensures uninterrupted supply of affordable energy for economic growth.
• Reduces vulnerability to geopolitical conflicts (e.g., West Asia, Russia–Ukraine).
• Controls inflation by stabilizing fuel and transport costs.
• Supports industrial production, agriculture, and logistics.
• Strengthens national and strategic security.

2. Challenges to India’s Energy Security

A. High Import Dependence

• Heavy reliance on imported crude increases exposure to global price shocks.

B. Geopolitical Risks

• Conflicts in West Asia and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten supply chains.

C. Exchange Rate Volatility

• Depreciation of the Indian Rupee raises the effective cost of crude imports.

D. Limited Domestic Production

• Stagnant domestic exploration has widened the demand-supply gap.

E. Transition Challenges

• High dependence on fossil fuels despite rapid renewable energy expansion.

3. Government Initiatives

• Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) at Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru and Padur.
• National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• Ethanol Blending Programme (E20).
• National Biofuel Policy.
• Expansion of solar, wind and electric mobility.
• Diversification of crude imports through partnerships with Russia, the UAE, the USA and other suppliers.

4. Way Forward

• Expand Strategic Petroleum Reserve capacity.
• Accelerate renewable energy and green hydrogen deployment.
• Promote domestic exploration under HELP.
• Improve energy efficiency across transport and industry.
• Diversify import sources and strengthen international energy partnerships.
• Develop advanced battery storage and smart grid infrastructure.

Conclusion

Energy security is no longer confined to securing oil supplies; it encompasses diversification, resilience, affordability and sustainability. By balancing conventional energy security with a clean energy transition, India can strengthen its economic resilience, fulfil its climate commitments, and move towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.