Reducing China Dependence And Phasing Down Coal: India’s Energy Transition Explained | Pralhad Joshi

As India accelerates its clean energy ambitions, questions remain around supply-chain dependence on China and the pace at which coal can be phased down. Speaking at BT Davos 2026, Pralhad Joshi, Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, outlines how India is reducing its reliance on Chinese imports across solar modules, cells, wafers and polysilicon, while building domestic manufacturing capacity with strong private-sector participation. In conversation with Siddharth Zarabi, Group Editor, Business Today, and Rajdeep Sardesai, Consulting Editor, India Today TV, the minister addresses concerns over coal’s continued dominance in electricity generation, stressing that India is pursuing a realistic and gradual transition rather than an abrupt exit. With large investments planned in renewable capacity, energy storage and grid stability, Joshi says India is steadily shifting away from fossil fuels while strengthening energy security and self-reliance.