In a major push to accelerate India’s green hydrogen ecosystem, the Union Government has launched a ₹100-crore dedicated scheme to support startups working on innovative technologies in hydrogen production, storage, transport, and utilization. The announcement was made by Union Minister Pralhad Joshi at the inaugural Green Hydrogen R&D Conference held in New Delhi on September 11, 2025.
The scheme is part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM), which was launched in 2023 with a total outlay of ₹19,744 crore. Under this new initiative, eligible startups can receive up to ₹5 crore per project to pilot breakthrough solutions in the green hydrogen value chain. The move is expected to catalyze India’s transition to a low-carbon economy while creating lakhs of new jobs and strengthening the country’s position as a global hub for clean energy innovation.
“This is not just about ideas—it’s about turning research into scalable solutions that can power industries, clean cities, and transform India’s energy future,” Joshi said during the conference.
🧭 Timeline of Green Hydrogen Startup Scheme Rollout
| Date | Event Description | Outcome / Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 2023 | National Green Hydrogen Mission launched | ₹19,744 crore outlay announced |
| July 14, 2025 | Second round of R&D proposals opened | Deadline set for Sept 15 |
| Sept 11, 2025 | ₹100-crore startup scheme launched | Up to ₹5 crore per project |
| Sept 11–12, 2025 | Green Hydrogen R&D Conference held | 25 startups showcased innovations |
| Oct–Dec 2025 | First batch of startup grants expected | Pilot projects to begin |
The scheme complements the broader NGHM goals of producing 5 million metric tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030.
🔍 Key Features of the ₹100-Crore Startup Scheme
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Green Hydrogen Innovation Support for Startups |
| Total Outlay | ₹100 crore |
| Max Funding per Project | ₹5 crore |
| Eligible Areas | Production, storage, transport, utilization |
| Application Deadline | September 15, 2025 |
| Implementing Ministry | Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) |
| Evaluation Criteria | Innovation, scalability, impact, feasibility |
Startups registered with DPIIT and working on hydrogen-related technologies are eligible to apply.
📉 Innovation Areas Targeted by the Scheme
| Innovation Domain | Description | Examples from Conference |
|---|---|---|
| Electrolyser Manufacturing | Cost-effective and scalable hydrogen production | AI-driven optimization models |
| Biological Hydrogen | Microbial and enzymatic production methods | Bio-reactor prototypes |
| Hydrogen Storage | Safe and efficient storage systems | Metal hydride and liquid organic carriers |
| Transport Infrastructure | Pipelines, tankers, refueling stations | Hydrogen bus retrofitting, port logistics |
| Utilization Technologies | Industrial, mobility, and power applications | Green ammonia, steel decarbonization |
The conference featured 25 startups showcasing cutting-edge solutions across these domains.
🔥 Strategic Importance of Green Hydrogen for India
- Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels.
- Climate Goals: Supports India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.
- Industrial Decarbonization: Enables clean steel, cement, and fertilizer production.
- Export Potential: Positions India as a supplier of green hydrogen and derivatives.
- Job Creation: Expected to generate over 6 lakh new jobs by 2030.
India’s first port-based green hydrogen pilot project has already been launched at V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tamil Nadu.
🧠 Expert Commentary on the Startup Scheme
| Expert Name | Role | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Meera Iyer | CleanTech Policy Analyst | “This scheme bridges the gap between lab-scale innovation and commercial deployment.” |
| Rajiv Bansal | Energy Economist | “Startups are the heartbeat of India’s hydrogen revolution—this funding is timely.” |
| Dr. Rakesh Sinha | Sustainability Researcher | “Green hydrogen is no longer a concept—it’s a catalyst for industrial transformation.” |
Experts agree that the scheme will unlock high-impact innovations and accelerate commercialization.
📦 National Green Hydrogen Mission Snapshot
| Pillar | Description | Progress Update |
|---|---|---|
| Policy & Regulatory | Framework for standards, safety, and incentives | Green Hydrogen Certification Scheme launched |
| Demand Creation | Auctions and mandates for hydrogen use | Green ammonia auction held at Paradeep |
| R&D & Innovation | Support for startups, academia, and industry | 23 projects awarded in first round |
| Enabling Infrastructure | Ports, refueling stations, testing labs | Hubs at Kandla, Paradip, Tuticorin |
The NGHM aims to attract ₹8 lakh crore in investments and reduce 50 million tonnes of CO₂ annually.
📅 Upcoming Milestones in India’s Hydrogen Journey
| Event | Date | Strategic Importance |
|---|---|---|
| R&D Proposal Deadline | Sept 15, 2025 | Final date for second-round submissions |
| Startup Grant Disbursement | Oct–Dec 2025 | Pilot projects to commence |
| Hydrogen Hubs Operational | Q1 2026 | Infrastructure rollout at key ports |
| Green Hydrogen Summit | March 2026 | Global showcase of India’s progress |
India is also expanding international collaborations under the EU–India Trade and Technology Council.
📌 Conclusion
The launch of the ₹100-crore scheme for startups under the National Green Hydrogen Mission marks a pivotal moment in India’s clean energy transition. By empowering innovators to develop scalable solutions in hydrogen production, storage, and utilization, the government is laying the foundation for a resilient and sustainable energy future. With global collaborations, robust infrastructure, and visionary policy support, India’s green hydrogen ecosystem is rapidly moving from promise to practice.
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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available government announcements, conference reports, and expert commentary as of September 12, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment or legal advice.
