India’s journey towards sustainability and innovation is reaching new heights as key institutes lead the charge in developing advanced technologies that align with the Government of India’s vision of Viksit Bharat, net-zero emissions by 2070, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Addressing a gathering at a prominent research institute, the Vice President lauded the nation’s strides in environmental stewardship and technological advancements.

Catalysts of Change

The Vice President highlighted the performance of LPG sweetening catalysts at 11 Indian and two foreign refineries, underscoring the institute’s pivotal role in this achievement. He emphasised the importance of such advancements, aligning them with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s reflections on the Paris Agreement, stating, “India is in the lead.”

A notable mention was made of the sustainable aviation fuel produced by the institute, which was used in India’s first demo flight from Dehradun to Delhi. The Vice President recalled witnessing this milestone during the Republic Day parades in 2019 and 2024, describing it as a spectacle reflecting India’s sustainability commitment.

Technological Innovations with Global Impact

The Vice President underscored the institute’s development of advanced vacuum pressure swing absorption technology, which upgrades raw biogas into piped natural gas. He noted the broader implications of such technologies, stating, “It is not easy, it is required. People will not catch up with the idea unless you are so developed.”

He also referenced the institute’s efforts in mitigating forest fires in Uttarakhand by utilising pine needle briquetting to produce biogenic fuels. Highlighting the global menace of forest fires, he expressed confidence that the institute would set a new benchmark in addressing such challenges.

Empowering Human Resources

The Vice President praised the institute’s contribution to human resource development through customised training programs in hydrocarbon, petrochemical, and automobile industries. He emphasised the importance of empowering human resources, noting that such initiatives contribute significantly to the nation’s climate goals.

India’s Leadership in Sustainability

Reflecting on India’s leadership in sustainability, the Vice President highlighted the country’s achievements, including the launch of the Global Biofuel Alliance during the G20 Summit in 2023 and the expansion of biofuel use in the transport sector. He noted the rapid adoption of electric vehicles, once considered a dream, and the circular economy, which has become a revolutionary movement since its mention by the Prime Minister in 2014.

A Call for Global Collaboration

The Vice President stressed the urgency of addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion, noting that these challenges transcend borders and disproportionately affect vulnerable communities. He called for a people- and nature-centric approach to development, urging global leadership to mainstream energy protection and climate justice.

A Commitment to Clean Energy

Emphasising the critical importance of clean energy, the Vice President stated, “Clean energy is just not another option; it is the only option. If we do not have it, we will face an existential challenge.” He commended the institute for developing a patented single-step catalytic process for producing biofuel from plant-derived materials and waste, aligning with the Prime Minister’s vision of converting waste into wealth.

Sustainable Development as a National Priority

The Vice President highlighted the integration of sustainability into national planning and budget allocation, pointing to the historic budget presented by India’s first full-fledged woman finance minister. He remarked on India’s rise from being one of the fragile five economies to becoming the fifth-largest global economy, attributing this success to the nation’s focus on sustainable development.

Encouraging Innovation and Research

The Vice President urged the government and corporate sector to be more liberal and focused on research, emphasising that every rupee spent on research contributes to national and global welfare. He noted India’s strides in quantum computing, green hydrogen, and 6G technology, asserting that India’s rise is assured due to its demographic youth power.

A Vision for the Future

Concluding his speech, the Vice President called for a non-partisan approach to national development, urging all political parties to prioritise national welfare and development over partisan interests. He expressed confidence in the nation’s continued rise in technology and research, envisioning a future where India leads in fields where it once relied on others.