In a decisive push towards a cleaner and more energy independent future, the Government of India is accelerating implementation of the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) with an ambitious goal of achieving at least 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of annual green hydrogen production capacity by 2030. 
Green hydrogen, produced by splitting water using renewable energy sources, is seen as a transformative clean fuel that can help decarbonise heavy industries, enhance energy security, and create new economic opportunities. The NGHM is designed to position India as a global hub for the production, utilization and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. 
As part of this mission, several support mechanisms have been launched to boost both production and cost competitiveness. Under the Electrolyser Manufacturing Incentive Scheme, Indian authorities have awarded manufacturing capacity rights totalling 3,000 MW per annum to 15 companies backed by incentives worth approximately ₹4,440 crore. In addition, around 862,000 tonnes per annum of hydrogen production capacity allocations have been made under the Green Hydrogen Production Incentive Scheme. 
To encourage early deployment and reduce production costs, the government has granted 25-year exemptions from inter-state transmission charges for green hydrogen and green ammonia plants commissioned with renewable energy by the end of 2030. Plants in Special Economic Zones are also eligible for duty benefits on renewable energy equipment for captive use. 
The mission’s broader objectives extend beyond production capacity. It aims to stimulate renewable energy expansion, with an associated estimated addition of about 125 GW by 2030, attract over ₹8 lakh crore in investments, and create more than 600,000 employment opportunities across the hydrogen value chain. Over the decade, this transition could also help reduce fossil fuel import costs by over ₹1 lakh crore and cut nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions. 
In supporting policy frameworks, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) is working on regulations and standards to underpin hydrogen production, transport, storage and export infrastructure. Incentives for domestic electrolyser manufacture and competitive bidding for hydrogen demand aggregation are central pillars of the mission’s strategy. 
Industry analysts note that while the 5 MMT-by-2030 target is ambitious, global market dynamics and investment timelines will be key determinants of progress. Some forecasts indicate India may achieve portions of this capacity even if full deployment timelines vary. 
As India steps up its green hydrogen ambitions under the NGHM, stakeholders across government, industry and finance are positioning for a fundamental shift in the energy landscape aiming to unlock cleaner fuels, sustainable growth and enhanced global competitiveness over the next decade.
