ISRO chief highlights hydrogen’s role in India’s clean energy and space future

Hydrogen is set to play a key role in India’s space missions, transportation, and clean energy future, according to Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of ISRO, at the National Workshop on “Hydrogen Fuel Technologies and Future Trends” held at Alliance University, Bengaluru.

The event, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science, also featured Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, director general of CSIR, and Dr. Vijay Kumar Saraswat, chairman of CIIS, who discussed India’s hydrogen policy and technological advancements.

Dr. Narayanan highlighted India’s progress in hydrogen technology, citing the successful use of liquid hydrogen in rockets and the ongoing testing of oxygen-based fuel cells. He pointed to hydrogen’s broad applications in aerospace, transportation, and fuel cells, noting ISRO’s collaboration with Tata Motors in developing hydrogen-powered buses. He also stressed the need for improved hydrogen safety systems, emphasizing the dangers of colorless hydrogen flames.

Abhay G. Chebbi, pro-chancellor of Alliance University, called hydrogen a “clean, efficient, and versatile energy carrier” essential for decarbonizing key sectors. Dr. Kalaiselvi emphasized the importance of advancing hydrogen production, storage, and application technologies to position India as a global leader in the field.

The workshop underscored the challenges and opportunities of integrating hydrogen into India’s energy landscape, highlighting its transformative potential across various sectors. Pradip Kumar Pandey, secretary, The Combustion Institute – Indian Section (CIIS), “This workshop comes at a crucial time, as India prepares for major advances in hydrogen technology and its applications. With nearly 150 participants from academia and industry, and high-level technical papers being presented, the event reflects the growing momentum in this field. We are proud to host thought leaders from institutions such as IISc, IITs, and leading global companies. Together, we hope to build knowledge, foster collaborations, and strengthen India’s role in the global hydrogen economy.”

Also Read: Former ISRO chairman K. Kasturirangan passes away at 84

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