Hydrogen poised for key part in India's space ventures, transportation advancements, and green energy ambitions, states ISRO Chief
India has embarked on an ambitious mission to transition its economy towards a hydrogen-based future. The National Green Hydrogen Mission, launched in January 2023, aims to position India as a global leader in green hydrogen production and export.
The mission is a response to the growing energy demand and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as stated by ISRO Chairman, V Narayanan. Hydrogen, with its applications in aircraft, trains, automobiles, and fuel cells, is seen as a key solution to this challenge.
The mission includes infrastructure for the storage, transportation, and utilization of green hydrogen. Over Rs. 8 lakh crores in total investments are expected for the green hydrogen capacity, which is projected to reach 5 million metric tons by 2030. This ambitious initiative is expected to create 6 lakh jobs by 2030.
The journey towards a hydrogen-based economy in India began in 2010-11 when ISRO and Tata Motors collaborated to build a hydrogen fuel cell-powered bus. The bus was safely tested, marking the beginning of India's hydrogen-powered transportation.
In June 2025, five hydrogen-powered buses began commercial operations, driving sustainability and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The mission's goals are now being realised as companies like BHEL and NTPC are working on hydrogen systems and gas turbine engines.
ISRO is also making significant strides in hydrogen technology. Last year, ISRO demonstrated a 100-watt oxygen-based fuel cell in space, with a 20-kilowatt version currently under testing. ISRO now has three cryogenic propulsion systems flying, and in three parameters, they are world number one.
HyOrc Corporation is advancing hydrogen locomotive pilot projects in India using their hydrogen-capable powertrain technology for zero-emission retrofits of diesel locomotives. This demonstrates the potential for hydrogen to revolutionise India's transportation sector.
The mission's ultimate goal is to make India a global leader in green hydrogen production and export. With the commitment and efforts of organisations like ISRO, HyOrc, BHEL, NTPC, and others, this goal seems within reach. As the world continues to grapple with energy demands and climate change, India's hydrogen mission could pave the way for a cleaner, greener future.
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