UPSC Mains 2016 GS3 Q11 — Renewable Energy
Give an account of the current status and the targets to be achieved pertaining to renewable energy sources in the country. Discuss in brief the importance of National Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs). (Answer in not more than 200 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Give an account ofDiscuss in brief
- Scope keywords
- current statustargets to be achievedrenewable energy sourcesNational Programme on Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)
- Implicit sub-parts
- Recent statistical snapshot of India's installed RE capacity vs. global ranking
- Specific 2030 targets (500GW non-fossil fuel) and COP26/Panchamrit commitments
- Transition from UJALA/SLNP schemes to national energy efficiency outcomes
- Economic and environmental benefits of LED adoption on the power grid
- Common pitfalls
- Failing to distinguish between installed capacity and generation mix
- Omitting the latest 500GW target and relying on the outdated 175GW/2022 goal
- Treating the LED programme as just a lighting scheme instead of a demand-side management tool
- Neglecting the mention of UJALA or SLNP specifically under the LED section
- Focusing only on Solar and ignoring Wind, Biomass, and Small Hydro components
- Dimensions required
- Statistical/Data-drivenPolicy/GovernanceEcological/SustainabilityTechnological/Efficiency
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate roughly 80 words to the current RE status and specific 2030 targets. Dedicate another 80-90 words to the LED programme, focusing on its role in peak load management and emissions reduction. Use the remaining 30 words for a forward-looking conclusion linking energy production with efficiency.
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