Evolution and Evaluation of Energy Policies in India Between 2000 and 2017

Abstract

India, as one of the world's largest energy consumers, has implemented a wide array of energy policies to meet the needs of its substantial population of 1.4 billion. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of these policies, from the establishment of the National Electricity Board in 1950 to the introduction of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwal Yojana in 2017. Covering a broad spectrum of energy forms, including electricity and LPG, it illuminates the evolution of India's energy policies and their effectiveness. Significant strides have been made since the 1950s when the government initiated rural and urban development programs. Landmark actions such as the establishment of nuclear power plants and the initiation of renewable energy source research and development have been critical in addressing the energy requirements of India's growing population and booming industries. Public domain data evaluation reveals a mixed performance of various schemes. While some have fallen short of their targets, others like the Saubhagya scheme have made impressive progress towards achieving universal electrification, with about 90% of households in India now having electricity access. However, concerns remain regarding the quality and reliability of this electricity provision. Furthermore, significant efforts are still required to adequately address the needs of institutional clients, small enterprises, and agricultural consumers. As the population continues to grow, it is recommended that an efficient evaluative strategy be established to monitor and address any emerging gaps in energy provision.