Send message to Author

Paper short abstract:

My work focuses on the challenges of just transitions driven by and for those in the global South. Through my work I wish to contribute to more comprehensively mapping the space for purposeful transitions towards sustainable development pathways.

Paper long abstract:

India’s energy system is currently shaped by two contrasting dynamics. On one hand, there is significant momentum towards the growth of a green energy economy, supported by various policies promoting renewable energy, green hydrogen, and energy efficiency technologies. On the other hand, India’s coal economy continues to expand, with new coal power plants and mines being established, and coal-based power generation still contributing over 65% of the country’s electricity—an imbalance that will take decades to address. Beyond the formal employment and energy sector spending commonly discussed in energy policy, coal's deep economic and social entrenchment in certain regions of India is a critical factor. This paper explores the complex role of coal in India’s social, economic, and political fabric, highlighting the emerging developmental opportunities as decarbonization and just transition discussions gain traction in domestic policy. The paper is based on 37 expert interviews with experts across the coal and energy sector in India and complemented with secondary literature review. By engaging with labor issues, financial dependencies, and India’s involvement in global just transition dialogues, this review assesses the current state of coal-related debates in India. It concludes by proposing that a deeper understanding of regional political economies, state interests, and coal dependencies can foster a more constructive and long-term approach to decarbonization.