Business
Wind Energy Central to India’s Renewable Energy Strategy: Pralhad Joshi
“Our national objectives are both ambitious and clear: we aim to achieve 50% of our power capacity from non-fossil fuel sources by 2030, with a goal of net-zero emissions by 2070. Wind energy is crucial for reaching these targets — it forms the cornerstone of our renewable energy strategy and is integral to the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat,’” stated the minister.
He reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s vision of harnessing renewable energy for manufacturing while utilizing conventional energy for household needs. With India’s manufacturing capabilities on the rise, the Prime Minister’s vision underscores the need for robust renewable energy production, storage, and usage to meet the sector’s growing energy demands.
Joshi noted that India holds tremendous potential in the renewable energy sector, currently boasting the fourth-largest wind power capacity globally and ranking third in renewable energy production. “It is remarkable that India has become the third-largest manufacturer of renewable energy in just a decade,” he remarked.
He outlined three critical challenges facing the wind energy sector:
1. Integrating wind with solar and battery energy storage systems to ensure continuous power supply and grid stability.
2. Maintaining competitive tariffs; a rate of Rs 3.90 per unit is too high, and collaborative efforts are needed to lower costs.
3. Improving domestic manufacturing efficiency to not only meet local needs but also enhance export capabilities.
Joshi emphasized the Union government’s commitment to unlocking the renewable energy sector’s potential, noting a 53% increase in this year’s renewable energy budget, amounting to Rs 26,549 crore, with a significant portion allocated to wind energy.
“The transition to renewables is essential. States must take the lead in this process. Challenges related to land availability and transmission delays must be addressed. This is not a time for indecision, but for action,” he advised.
“I’m pleased to share that India is now manufacturing wind turbines ranging from 225 kW to 5.2 MW, with 33 models produced by 14 companies. These turbines not only cater to our domestic needs but are also competitively priced on the global stage,” he added.
At the event, Joshi also announced the release of reports detailing the wind energy and manufacturing roadmaps. He stated that these documents will serve as essential frameworks guiding India’s future endeavors and manifesting our shared goals and commitment to building a robust and self-reliant wind energy ecosystem.
Global Wind Day is celebrated on June 15 to recognize the development of wind energy, and with the government’s ongoing policy support, the wind energy sector has exhibited significant growth.
Gold prices in India recorded a slight increase on January 19, 2026, supported by global market trends, local demand, and movements in the rupee-dollar exchange rate.
As per market estimates, 24-carat gold, which is considered pure gold, is priced at ₹14,569 per gram, or ₹1,45,690 per 10 grams. 22-carat gold, commonly used for jewellery, is trading at around ₹13,355 per gram, or ₹1,33,550 per 10 grams.
The prices have risen marginally compared to the previous day. The increase is mainly linked to a weaker Indian rupee against the US dollar, which makes imported gold more expensive.
Gold rates vary slightly across cities such as Mangalore and other parts of the country. These differences depend on local taxes, transportation costs, jeweller margins, and regional demand.
Demand for gold remains strong due to the wedding season and festive buying, which continues to support higher prices. Investors also turn to gold during uncertain economic conditions, as it is seen as a safe-haven asset.
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Experts say that global geopolitical developments, inflation concerns, and central bank policies are also influencing international gold prices, which in turn affect domestic rates.
Market participants expect gold prices to remain firm in the near term if the rupee stays weak and demand continues at current levels.
Gold prices witnessed a mild decline in the domestic bullion market on January 16, 2026. The price of 24-carat gold was recorded at ₹143,080 per 10 grams. This marked a fall of ₹360 compared to its previous closing price, indicating a soft trend in the precious metal market.
Similarly, the price of 22-carat gold also moved lower. It was trading at ₹131,157 per 10 grams during the day. The decline in gold prices reflects cautious sentiment among investors amid changing global economic signals.
Market experts said gold prices were affected by fluctuations in international markets and movements in the US dollar. Profit booking by investors at higher levels also contributed to the marginal drop in prices.
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Despite the decline, demand for gold remains steady in the domestic market. Jewellers reported moderate buying interest, especially for 22-carat gold used in jewellery. Industry participants are now closely watching global inflation data, interest rate trends, and geopolitical developments.
Gold prices are expected to remain volatile in the coming days. Investors are advised to keep an eye on global cues and currency movements before making fresh investments.
Silver prices fell sharply from record levels in the national capital on Thursday due to global profit-booking. The price of silver dropped by ₹12,500 to ₹2,43,500 per kilogram.
According to the All India Sarafa Association, the white metal had touched a record high of ₹2,56,000 per kilogram in the previous trading session on Wednesday. Silver had surged by ₹5,000 in that session amid strong global cues.
Gold prices also weakened on Thursday. The yellow metal declined by ₹900 per 10 grams in the local market. Traders attributed the fall to selling pressure after recent gains.
Market experts said that a rise in global prices earlier had encouraged investors to book profits. This selling pressure impacted both silver and gold prices in the domestic market.
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They added that movements in international bullion prices and a stronger dollar also influenced the decline. Investors are now closely watching global economic signals for further direction in precious metal prices.
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