Which sector is responsible for providing electricity in India?

The correct answer is Power.

Key Points

• The power sector is the primary sector responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity in India.
• India’s electricity is produced through various sources, including thermal power, hydropower, nuclear power, and renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
• The Ministry of Power, Government of India, oversees policies, regulations, and development in the power sector.
• State Electricity Boards (SEBs) and private power companies are key players in electricity distribution across the country.
• India is the third-largest producer and consumer of electricity globally (as of recent data), emphasizing the importance of the power sector in national development.

Additional Information

• Thermal Power:
  • Thermal power plants use fossil fuels (coal, gas, oil) to generate electricity and contribute to a significant share of India’s power generation.
  • India is heavily reliant on coal, with over 60% of its electricity coming from coal-based power plants.
• Renewable Energy:
  • Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower are rapidly growing in India, with a focus on reducing carbon emissions.
  • India’s renewable energy capacity has surpassed 120 GW (as of 2023), with ambitious targets under the National Solar Mission.
• National Grid:
  • The Indian electricity grid is one of the largest in the world and operates as a single national grid since 2013.
  • It ensures electricity supply across all regions and facilitates energy transfer between states.
• Key Government Initiatives:
  • UDAY (Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana): Aims to improve the financial health of electricity distribution companies (DISCOMs).
  • Saubhagya Scheme: Focuses on providing electricity connections to all households in India.
  • Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS): Strengthens the power distribution network in urban areas.