Propelled by bold governmental initiatives, global cost innovations, and significant R&D expenditures under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), India is accelerating its transition to a green hydrogen economy. The goal of the ₹19,744 crore project, which was launched on January 4, 2023, is to establish India as a global center for the production, consumption, and export of green hydrogen. Supported by 125 GW of renewable power, ₹8 trillion in investments, the creation of 600,000 jobs, and 50 million tonnes of averted CO₂ emissions annually, the mission aims to produce five million tonnes annually by 2030 and scale up to 25 million tonnes by 2047.

Breakthroughs in Cost and Infrastructure Development

The government reached a significant milestone when it closed the bidding for 724,000 tonnes of green ammonia at Site 2A at the lowest price ever recorded globally, ₹49.75 per kilogram. This indicates that India has a competitive edge in the manufacturing of green hydrogen.

Important infrastructural initiatives are also accelerating:

• Pilot Projects: Hydrogen-powered buses, refueling facilities, and modified transport vessels are already in use.
• Port-based Projects: VO Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu is the site of the nation’s first port-based green hydrogen pilot.
• Hydrogen Hubs: Important ports such as Kandla, Paradip, and Thoothukudi are being developed.

The government has also taken significant actions to unblock projects:

• Tax Reform: The GST rate on electrolyser components was lowered from 18% to 5%.
• Policy Waivers: To expedite development, transmission, and environmental clearance, waivers are in place.
• Skill Development: Over 5,600 experts with certifications in technology connected to hydrogen.

Also Read: The World Recorded Third-Hottest August In 2025 Amid Rising Temperatures

R&D and Innovation Driving Growth

The NGHM has set aside ₹400 crore for research and development, financing 23 projects in its initial phase to guarantee technical leadership. Partnerships with the EU are promoting hydrogen-from-waste initiatives, and plans are underway to establish a specific Center of Excellence on Hydrogen Innovation.

Priority R&D areas highlighted by experts:

• Electrolyser Breakthroughs: Creating domestic electrodes, membranes, and polymers.
• Transport & Storage: Constructing Type-IV composite hydrogen cylinders for home use.
• End-usage Applications: Growing usage of hydrogen in ships, fertilizers, steel, and cement.
• Biomass-Based Hydrogen: Personalized routes for India’s crops.
• Advanced Fuel Cells: Biofuel cells, solid oxide, and PEM at high and low temperatures.

A ₹100 crore initiative is also being used to support startups that are developing novel hydrogen technology, with each startup receiving up to ₹ five crore in funding.

Also Read: Extreme Weather Cost China $2.8 Billion In August Alone