22nd February 2025
Topic : Biotechnology’s Role in Transforming North East India
Relevance : GS Paper 3 Science and Technology
Source : PIB
Context :
India’s North East Region (NER) is a unique geographical and ecological treasure, home to diverse flora, fauna, and indigenous knowledge systems. With its rich biodiversity and natural resources, the region holds immense potential for scientific advancement and economic growth. Biotechnology has emerged as a transformative force, not only preserving the natural heritage of the NER but also paving the way for sustainable economic development.
The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has played a pivotal role in advancing scientific research, educational initiatives, and entrepreneurial ventures in the region. Through targeted programs, it has facilitated the use of biotechnological innovations to improve agriculture, healthcare, and environmental conservation.
Biotechnology Driving a Green Revolution
The application of biotechnology in the North East Region has created a shift toward a more sustainable and knowledge-driven economy. Several key initiatives have been undertaken to empower local farmers, researchers, and entrepreneurs by leveraging indigenous biological resources and modern technology.
• Medicinal Plant Cultivation
o The cultivation of medicinal plants has opened new avenues for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries while enhancing the income of local farmers.
o This initiative supports traditional healing practices and integrates them with modern scientific validation.
• Climate-Resilient Crops
o Scientists and researchers are developing crop varieties that can withstand climate change effects, such as erratic rainfall and temperature variations.
o These improved crops ensure food security and stable agricultural productivity in the region.
• Entrepreneurship in Biotechnology
o Bio-entrepreneurs are transforming indigenous knowledge into commercially viable products.
o Small-scale industries are being encouraged to use biotechnology for creating value-added products, such as herbal extracts, organic fertilizers, and processed foods.
Government Initiatives for Biotechnology Growth
The Department of Biotechnology has consistently allocated funds to support specialized programs in the North East Region. These initiatives are focused on bridging the gap between natural resource availability and economic potential by investing in education, infrastructure, and research.
Collaborative Research and Development
• Twinning R&D Programme
o This initiative promotes collaboration between institutions in the North East and leading research centers across India.
o It has strengthened research capabilities by facilitating knowledge exchange, joint projects, and infrastructure development.
o A large number of researchers and students have benefited from these collaborative efforts.
• Chemical Ecology Research Program
o This program has helped train young scientists in the field of chemical ecology, enabling them to conduct high-quality research.
o It has fostered partnerships between North Eastern research institutions and premier institutes in Bangalore.
• Genomics Research for Human Health
o Biotechnology applications in healthcare are being advanced through genomics research, focusing on diseases affecting local populations.
o Scientists, medical researchers, and clinicians in the NER receive specialized training to conduct biomedical studies.
Educational and Training Infrastructure
• Establishment of Biotech Hubs
o A network of biotech hubs has been created across universities, colleges, and research institutions.
o These hubs provide access to modern laboratory facilities and training programs in biotechnology.
o The second phase of the initiative has strengthened focused research on region-specific issues.
• Biotechnology Labs in Schools (BLiSS)
o To foster early interest in biotechnology, modern laboratories have been set up in senior secondary schools.
o These labs enable students to gain hands-on experience in biological sciences from a young age.
• Visiting Research Professorship (VRP) Programme
o Renowned scientists visit the NER to share expertise, conduct workshops, and mentor young researchers.
o This initiative has significantly contributed to the advancement of biotechnology education and research.
Capacity Building and Human Resource Development
To ensure long-term sustainability and self-reliance, the DBT has introduced various human resource development programs in the North East Region.
• Training for Researchers
o Specialized training programs have been introduced to enhance the skills of local researchers.
o These programs focus on molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics, and biomedical research techniques.
• Support for Farmers and Agricultural Biotechnology
o The North East Centre for Agricultural Biotechnology (DBT-NECAB) has been established to provide direct benefits to farmers.
o Training programs educate farmers on modern cultivation techniques and sustainable agricultural practices.
• Strengthening Citrus Research
o Research facilities for citrus fruit production have been set up in Assam.
o The initiative focuses on producing disease-free rootstocks to improve citrus farming.
Biotechnology for Sustainable Bioresources
• Medicinal Plant Cultivation
o Specific medicinal plants like Curcuma caesia and compound-rich lemongrass are being cultivated in a controlled manner.
o Farmers and entrepreneurs receive training on value-added processing of these medicinal crops.
• Essential Oil Production
o An essential oil distillation unit has been established in Arunachal Pradesh.
o This facility supports local farmers in processing aromatic plants for the perfume and pharmaceutical industries.
• Promotion of Wild Apple Cultivation
o The indigenous Docynia indica, also known as Assam apple, has been explored for commercial use.
o Tribal communities are being trained to create value-added products such as pickles, jam, and juice.
Major Achievements in Biotechnology for NER
The implementation of biotechnology programs in the North East Region has resulted in significant advancements across multiple domains.
• Development of Disease-Resistant Crops
o A new bacterial blight-resistant rice variety, “Patkai,” has been developed.
o This rice variety has been officially recognized for its resistance to diseases and high yield potential.
• Rapid Disease Detection in Livestock
o A lateral flow assay for brucellosis detection in livestock has been developed.
o This tool allows farmers and veterinarians to diagnose diseases quickly and accurately.
• Mobile Application for Livestock Health
o A computer-based Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES) has been launched.
o The application helps farmers and veterinarians diagnose and manage pig diseases efficiently.
o It is available for download on the Google Play Store, making it accessible to a wide user base.
Prelims Practice Question
Consider the following statements regarding the role of biotechnology in transforming North East India:
- The Twinning R&D Programme was launched to develop core competence in biotechnology by facilitating collaborations between institutions in the North East Region (NER) and leading research institutes across India.
- The DBT-North East Centre for Agricultural Biotechnology (DBT-NECAB) focuses on enhancing citrus fruit research and ensuring disease-free rootstocks.
- The Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES) is a mobile application developed to assist in diagnosing and managing pig diseases, and it is available on the Google Play Store.
- The essential oil distillation unit has been established in Assam to support farmers in processing aromatic plants for commercial use.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer:
Correct Option: (c) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
• Statement 1 is correct: The Twinning R&D Programme was launched to facilitate collaborations between North East institutions and leading research institutes across India, strengthening biotechnology research and capacity building.
• Statement 2 is correct: DBT-NECAB has been established to enhance agricultural biotechnology, including research on citrus fruits and ensuring disease-free rootstocks.
• Statement 3 is correct: The Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES) is a mobile application available on the Google Play Store to help farmers and veterinarians diagnose pig diseases.
• Statement 4 is incorrect: The essential oil distillation unit has been established in Arunachal Pradesh, not Assam.
Thus, the correct answer is (c) 1, 2, and 3 only.
Mains Model Question
Q. How is biotechnology transforming the North East Region (NER) of India? Discuss the role of government initiatives in promoting bio-entrepreneurship, research, and sustainable resource management in the region.
Biotechnology is playing a transformative role in the North East Region (NER) of India by integrating scientific advancements with the region’s rich biodiversity and traditional knowledge. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has been at the forefront of this transformation, launching various initiatives that enhance agricultural productivity, improve healthcare, and create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
One of the major areas of impact has been agriculture, where biotechnology has helped in the development of climate-resilient crops such as bacterial blight-resistant rice. The cultivation of medicinal plants, such as Curcuma caesia and lemongrass, has been promoted, providing farmers with alternative sources of income. In livestock management, technology-driven solutions like the Pig Disease Diagnosis Expert System (PDDES) have helped farmers diagnose and manage diseases, reducing losses and improving productivity.
Government initiatives have also focused on research and education. The Twinning R&D Programme has strengthened collaboration between NER institutions and leading research centers, fostering innovation in biotechnology. The establishment of Biotech Hubs across universities and colleges has enhanced research infrastructure, while school-level initiatives like the Biotechnology Labs in Senior Secondary Schools (BLiSS) program have encouraged young minds to explore biological sciences.
Bio-entrepreneurship has been a key focus, with efforts directed towards value-added processing of natural resources. Essential oil distillation units have been set up in Arunachal Pradesh to help farmers commercialize aromatic plants, and indigenous fruits like the Assam wild apple are being processed into marketable products. Such initiatives not only boost local economies but also promote sustainable resource utilization.
Biotechnology in NER is thus not only preserving the ecological and cultural heritage of the region but also driving economic growth by integrating scientific innovation with traditional practices, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future.
Topic : USAID and DOGE
Relevance : GS Paper 3 Economy
Source : The Hindu
Context :
The recent allegations by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) regarding USAID’s funding for “voter turnout” in India have raised significant concerns within the Indian government. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has termed the allegations as “very deeply troubling” and has stated that relevant departments and agencies are investigating the matter. However, the MEA has refrained from commenting on whether ongoing USAID partnerships with various Indian ministries will be reviewed or canceled.
Key Aspects of the Issue:
Allegations of U.S. Election Aid to India:
• DOGE, an entity under the U.S. administration and reportedly led by billionaire Elon Musk, claimed that USAID planned to allocate $21 million for voter turnout in India.
• The post on X (formerly Twitter) mentioned that this funding, along with other expenditures for election-related programs worldwide, had been canceled.
MEA’s Reaction:
• MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal acknowledged the allegations and confirmed that India was examining the issue through its relevant agencies.
• The government is particularly concerned about potential foreign interference in India’s electoral processes.
• The MEA refused to confirm whether this would lead to a review of multiple USAID-funded projects in India, indicating that it was too early to make such a decision.
USAID and CEPPS Involvement:
• USAID has been a key donor agency in India, having allocated around $650 million since 2020 and nearly $2.86 billion since 2001.
• DOGE specifically named the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS), a USAID-funded initiative, as the channel for the alleged election-related funding to India.
• Following DOGE’s claims, both USAID and CEPPS websites have been taken down, raising further questions.
Disputed Claims:
• Some media reports suggest that the allegations may be factually incorrect, stating that the $21 million in USAID funding was actually meant for Bangladesh, not India.
• The MEA has refrained from commenting on these claims, saying it is awaiting a full report from investigative agencies.
Potential Implications:
- Diplomatic Strain: These allegations could strain Indo-U.S. relations, especially with general elections approaching in India.
- Review of USAID Partnerships: If the claims are verified, India may choose to reassess or restrict USAID’s involvement in various projects.
- Domestic Political Repercussions: The controversy could become a topic of debate in Indian politics, especially concerning foreign influence in democratic processes.
The Indian government is treating the matter with seriousness and has launched an internal probe. While the full details remain unclear, this development underscores the sensitivity of foreign funding in India’s electoral landscape. It also raises broader questions about transparency, accountability, and the geopolitical implications of foreign aid in domestic affairs.
Prelims Practice Question:
Consider the following statements regarding the recent U.S. aid controversy in India: - The U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) alleged that USAID planned to fund voter turnout efforts in India.
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the Indian government has canceled all USAID-funded projects in response to the allegations.
- The Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) was named as the channel for the alleged funding.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer:
Correct Option: (b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
• Statement 1 is correct: DOGE claimed that USAID planned to allocate $21 million for voter turnout efforts in India.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The MEA has not canceled USAID-funded projects but is investigating the matter.
• Statement 3 is correct: DOGE named the Consortium for Elections and Political Process Strengthening (CEPPS) as the entity responsible for disbursing the alleged funds.
Mains Model Question:
Q. The recent allegations regarding USAID’s funding for voter turnout in India have raised concerns about foreign influence in domestic electoral processes. Critically analyze the implications of such foreign funding on India’s sovereignty, diplomatic relations, and electoral integrity.
Foreign funding in electoral processes is a sensitive issue, as it directly impacts national sovereignty and democratic integrity. The recent claims by the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) that USAID planned to allocate $21 million for voter turnout in India have triggered serious concerns. While the Indian government is investigating the matter, the broader implications of such funding—whether real or alleged—merit deeper scrutiny.
From a sovereignty perspective, any attempt to influence electoral processes through foreign financial aid raises questions about external interference. Elections are the cornerstone of democracy, and even indirect involvement by foreign entities can create public distrust. The allegations, if proven true, could lead to stricter regulations on foreign funding for NGOs and electoral bodies to ensure that India’s democratic process remains independent.
Diplomatically, such claims could strain India-U.S. relations. USAID has been a long-term development partner, contributing billions to India’s social and economic sectors. A review or cancellation of existing agreements could impact bilateral cooperation in areas like health, education, and climate change. At the same time, India must assert its position against any external influence, reinforcing its strategic autonomy.
Electoral integrity is another key concern. Even if the funding was intended for voter awareness rather than political bias, the perception of foreign involvement can be damaging. It could be used as a political tool domestically, affecting public confidence in free and fair elections. Given these complexities, India must ensure transparency in foreign funding regulations while maintaining diplomatic balance to avoid unnecessary tensions with strategic partners.
Topic : India-China Cooperation in G-20
Relevance : GS Paper 2 International Relations
Source : The Hindu
Context :
The recent meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg highlighted the commitment of both countries to preserving and strengthening multilateral platforms. Despite ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), both nations have recognized the need for cooperation in global forums like the G-20, BRICS, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). This diplomatic engagement underscores the importance of multilateralism in a polarized world, where major economies like India and China play a stabilizing role in global governance.
Jaishankar’s remarks acknowledged that, despite bilateral challenges, India and China have worked hard to protect the G-20’s integrity. This statement comes at a time when global geopolitical divisions have intensified, particularly due to the U.S.-China rivalry, the Ukraine conflict, and economic uncertainties. Given recent criticism of BRICS by former U.S. President Donald Trump and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s boycott of the G-20 meeting, India and China’s collaboration on multilateral matters signifies their shared interest in maintaining a balanced global order. The meeting also covered key bilateral issues such as the resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage, trans-border river talks, increased flight connectivity, and people-to-people exchanges—indicative of efforts to normalize relations despite border disputes.
India’s G-20 Presidency: Key Initiatives and Achievements
India held the G-20 presidency in 2023 under the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future,” emphasizing global unity, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth. The presidency was marked by several landmark initiatives:
Green Development and Climate Finance: India pushed for a global commitment to sustainable growth, advocating for increased funding for green energy, climate resilience, and disaster risk reduction. The establishment of the Global Biofuels Alliance was a major achievement.
Digital Public Infrastructure: Recognizing India’s leadership in digital transformation, the presidency promoted Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as a model for inclusive economic growth, showcasing initiatives like UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and Aadhaar-based identity systems.
Women-Led Development: India highlighted the importance of gender equality and economic empowerment of women, integrating this agenda across multiple working groups.
Global South Representation: India positioned itself as the voice of the Global South, advocating for greater representation of developing nations in global decision-making. The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G-20 was a key milestone.
Geopolitical Stability and Economic Cooperation: Amid growing geopolitical tensions, India facilitated consensus-building on major global challenges, including food and energy security, supply chain resilience, and debt sustainability for developing nations.
India’s presidency concluded with the successful hosting of the New Delhi G-20 Summit in September 2023, which resulted in the Delhi Declaration, a consensus document addressing key global economic and political issues. The summit showcased India’s diplomatic leadership, reinforcing its position as a bridge between the Global North and South.
India’s role in the G-20, coupled with its engagement with China on multilateral platforms, highlights the necessity of strategic diplomacy in an increasingly fragmented world. While bilateral challenges persist, such forums provide opportunities for constructive dialogue and conflict resolution. India’s presidency has not only strengthened its global standing but also reinforced the significance of inclusive multilateralism in addressing global challenges.
Prelims Practice Question:
With reference to India’s G-20 presidency and its diplomatic engagements, consider the following statements:
- India held the G-20 presidency in 2023 under the theme “One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
- The inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G-20 was a key achievement of India’s presidency.
- India and China recently worked together to protect and strengthen the G-20 as an institution despite ongoing bilateral tensions.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer:
Correct Option: (d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
• Statement 1 is correct: India held the G-20 presidency in 2023 with the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future.”
• Statement 2 is correct: One of the major diplomatic achievements of India’s G-20 presidency was the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member.
• Statement 3 is correct: During a recent G-20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India and China worked together to preserve the G-20 despite global polarization and bilateral tensions.
Mains Model Question:
Q. India’s G-20 presidency in 2023 was marked by significant diplomatic achievements and global leadership. In this context, analyze India’s role in shaping multilateral cooperation and its engagement with China within the G-20 framework.
India’s presidency of the G-20 in 2023 was a defining moment in its diplomatic history, demonstrating its ability to foster consensus on global issues despite rising geopolitical tensions. Under the theme “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – One Earth, One Family, One Future,” India positioned itself as a bridge between the Global North and South, advocating for inclusive economic growth, climate action, and digital transformation. A landmark achievement was the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member, reinforcing India’s commitment to global equity and representation. Additionally, initiatives such as the Global Biofuels Alliance and promotion of Digital Public Infrastructure showcased India’s leadership in sustainable development and technological innovation.
Despite ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), India and China engaged diplomatically within the G-20 framework. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Johannesburg underscored the importance of preserving multilateral institutions. Both nations recognized the G-20’s role in maintaining global economic stability and worked together to prevent further polarization, despite their differences on regional and bilateral issues. This pragmatic engagement highlights the necessity of diplomatic dialogue in addressing global governance challenges while managing bilateral disputes separately.
India’s presidency also navigated complex geopolitical realities, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the shifting dynamics of BRICS. By facilitating cooperation among diverse global stakeholders, India reinforced its role as a responsible global player. Its leadership in the G-20 not only strengthened its diplomatic standing but also demonstrated its capacity to mediate between competing global interests while advancing its national priorities. Through strategic multilateralism, India balanced cooperation with China while asserting its own vision for an inclusive and resilient global order.
Topic : India-Qatar Trade Relations and the Growing LNG Partnership
Relevance : GS Paper 3 Science and Technology, Trade
Source : Indian Express
Context :
India and Qatar share a robust trade relationship, predominantly driven by energy cooperation, with liquefied natural gas (LNG) playing a central role. As India aims to increase its natural gas consumption, its dependence on LNG imports is set to rise, making Qatar a crucial supplier. In light of recent diplomatic engagements, both countries have set an ambitious target of doubling bilateral trade to $28 billion by 2030. This article explores the dynamics of the India-Qatar LNG trade, the strategic implications of this relationship, and the broader context of India’s LNG import strategies.
The Importance of LNG in India-Qatar Trade
Qatar is India’s largest supplier of LNG, a position it has maintained due to its vast reserves and well-established export infrastructure. In the first 11 months of 2024, LNG accounted for 50% of India’s total imports from Qatar, amounting to $5.75 billion. India imported 9.82 million tonnes of LNG from Qatar during this period, making up 38.8% of its total LNG imports.
The energy relationship is deeply institutionalized. Petronet LNG, India’s largest LNG importer, has a long-term contract with Qatar for 7.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG, recently extended until 2048. Additionally, the Indian public sector company GAIL signed a five-year contract with QatarEnergy for additional LNG imports, reinforcing Qatar’s role as India’s primary LNG supplier.
India’s Growing LNG Demand
The Indian government has set a target to increase the share of natural gas in the country’s primary energy mix from the current 6% to 15% by 2030. Given the limited domestic production, LNG imports are crucial to meeting this goal. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projects that India’s LNG imports will more than double from 36 billion cubic meters (bcm) in 2024 to 65 bcm by 2030. This growth rate underscores the increasing demand for reliable and long-term LNG supply agreements.
Between 2013 and 2023, India’s LNG imports grew by 70%, solidifying its position as the fourth-largest LNG importer globally. Looking ahead, India’s LNG demand is expected to grow at an annual rate of 11% from 2023 to 2030, double the rate observed in the previous decade. This increase in demand has led Indian oil and gas companies to explore multiple long-term contracts with various suppliers.
Qatar’s LNG Expansion and Market Position
Qatar is significantly increasing its LNG export capacity, aiming to nearly double its liquefaction capacity from 77 mtpa to 142 mtpa by 2027. This expansion will further cement its position as a global LNG leader and ensure a steady supply for India. Qatar’s strategic advantage lies in its cost-effective production capabilities and long-term contracts that offer stability to buyers like India.
The country’s ability to produce LNG at a competitive price has made it an attractive partner for India, which requires cost-efficient and reliable LNG imports to sustain its growing energy needs. With its long-term contracts and additional capacity, Qatar is well-positioned to continue as India’s leading LNG supplier.
The US as a Competing LNG Supplier
While Qatar remains India’s primary LNG supplier, the US has emerged as a significant competitor. In January-November 2024, India imported 5.12 million tonnes of LNG from the US, accounting for 20.2% of its total LNG imports. The US is currently the world’s largest LNG exporter and has been actively expanding its market share in India.
Following a recent meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump, both countries agreed to strengthen their energy partnership, with Washington positioning itself as a leading supplier of oil and gas to India. Trump also lifted the Biden administration’s ban on new LNG export permits, potentially increasing US LNG exports to India. Given the US’s ability to supply LNG at competitive rates, India is keenly exploring long-term LNG contracts with American suppliers to diversify its sources.
Bilateral Trade and Economic Implications
Despite India’s efforts to increase exports to Qatar and attract Qatari investments, the trade balance remains heavily in Qatar’s favor due to India’s massive LNG imports. India’s total imports from Qatar reached $11.49 billion in the first 11 months of 2024, while exports stood at just $1.61 billion. The primary imports, apart from LNG, include crude oil, LPG, plastics, and other petrochemical products.
India is actively seeking to diversify trade with Qatar by expanding exports in sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and engineering goods. Additionally, both countries are exploring mutual investments in the energy sector to enhance their strategic partnership.
The Strategic Importance of India-Qatar Energy Ties
Energy security is a key pillar of India’s economic growth, and securing long-term LNG supplies is essential to ensuring stable energy prices and sustainable development. Qatar’s reliability as a supplier and its ability to meet India’s growing energy demands make it a strategic partner in India’s energy security framework.
India has also expressed interest in participating in Qatar’s energy infrastructure projects and has encouraged Qatari investment in India’s downstream energy sector. Given the strong diplomatic and trade ties, the India-Qatar energy partnership is expected to deepen further.
The India-Qatar trade relationship is deeply intertwined with LNG imports, which form the backbone of bilateral trade. With India’s LNG demand expected to surge and Qatar expanding its export capacity, their energy partnership is set to strengthen over the coming years. However, competition from the US and other emerging LNG exporters means that India must strategically navigate its LNG procurement strategy. By diversifying suppliers and securing cost-effective long-term contracts, India can ensure energy security while maintaining a balanced trade relationship with Qatar.
The Role of LNG in India’s Energy Future
Liquefied natural gas (LNG) is a crucial component of India’s transition to a cleaner energy mix. It is a key enabler for reducing reliance on coal, lowering carbon emissions, and supporting industrial growth. As India aims to increase its natural gas consumption to 15% of the energy mix by 2030, LNG will play a pivotal role in meeting this target.
The benefits of LNG include its efficiency, lower emissions compared to coal, and versatility in applications ranging from power generation to industrial use and transportation. However, challenges remain, including price volatility, infrastructure constraints, and the need for long-term supply agreements.
To overcome these challenges, India is investing in LNG regasification terminals, pipeline networks, and city gas distribution projects. With strong partnerships with leading LNG exporters like Qatar and the US, India is well-positioned to secure a stable and sustainable LNG supply for the future.
.
Prelims Practice Question:
Consider the following statements regarding India-Qatar LNG trade:
- Qatar is the largest supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to India.
- India’s natural gas consumption is expected to decrease by 2030 due to increased domestic production.
- Petronet LNG has a long-term contract with Qatar for LNG supply till 2048.
- The USA is currently the largest exporter of LNG globally.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3 only
Answer:
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
Explanation:
• Statement 1 is correct: Qatar is India’s largest supplier of LNG, accounting for a significant share of India’s total LNG imports.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: India’s natural gas consumption is projected to increase significantly by 2030, not decrease. LNG imports are expected to double due to rising demand and slow growth in domestic production.
• Statement 3 is correct: Petronet LNG has extended its long-term contract with Qatar for 7.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of LNG until 2048.
• Statement 4 is correct: The USA is currently the largest exporter of LNG globally and is a key competitor to Qatar in the LNG market.
Mains Model Question
Q. Discuss the significance of LNG trade in India-Qatar bilateral relations. How does India’s growing energy demand shape its LNG import strategy, and what role does Qatar play in fulfilling this demand?
Significance of LNG in India-Qatar Relations:
• Major Energy Partner: Qatar is India’s largest supplier of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), accounting for nearly 39% of total LNG imports.
• Long-term Agreements: Petronet LNG has extended its 7.5 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) contract with Qatar until 2048, ensuring energy security.
• Trade Expansion Goals: India and Qatar aim to double bilateral trade to $28 billion by 2030, with energy cooperation as a central pillar.
India’s Growing Energy Demand & LNG Import Strategy:
• Rising Consumption: India aims to increase the share of natural gas in its energy mix from 6% to 15% by 2030, driving higher LNG imports.
• Infrastructure Development: Expansion of LNG terminals and pipeline networks to accommodate rising imports.
• Diversification Efforts: While Qatar remains the primary supplier, India is also securing long-term contracts with the U.S., UAE, and France to reduce dependency.
• Spot Market Purchases: India supplements its long-term contracts with flexible spot market purchases, where Qatar also plays a significant role.
Qatar’s Role in India’s LNG Security:
• Production Expansion: Qatar is increasing its LNG export capacity from 77 mtpa to 142 mtpa by 2027, ensuring a stable and competitive supply.
• Price Competitiveness: Long-term contracts with Qatar offer price stability compared to volatile global energy markets.
• Geopolitical Stability: Qatar’s strategic location and political stability make it a reliable energy partner for India.
India’s growing energy demand and Qatar’s LNG expansion ensure a strong and mutually beneficial partnership in the coming decades.
