Challenges to Deep-Decarbonization to Achieve Net Zero for India: A Review

Achieving net-zero emissions is essential to limiting global warming, and India’s role is critical given its size, developmental needs, and rising energy demand. This article reviews recent academic and grey literature to identify key challenges to deep decarbonization in India, with a focus on the near term. It introduces a conceptual framework that groups these barriers into three broad categories: techno-economic, governance and institutional, and socio-economic and political economy. Within this structure, it analyses sector-specific obstacles in power, industry, and transport. The review highlights cost and financing barriers, regulatory and institutional limitations, and complex socio-political trade-offs. The article concludes by identifying opportunities for targeted interventions and outlines research and policy gaps that need urgent attention to ensure India’s transition to net zero aligns with its development priorities.