New CCUS Research Roadmap to Drive Industrial Decarbonisation in India

India Launches National R&D Roadmap to Accelerate CCUS Technologies

India has unveiled its first national Research and Development roadmap dedicated to Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) —a strategic move aimed at supporting the country’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 . The roadmap provides a consolidated framework for scientific research, industry partnerships and large-scale deployment of carbon management technologies.

Decarbonising Hard-to-Abate Industries

The initiative places strong emphasis on industrial sectors such as cement, steel and thermal power , where emissions remain unavoidable even with advanced energy efficiency and renewable integration. CCUS solutions—including carbon extraction, industrial utilisation and geological storage—are being positioned as essential tools for reducing emissions where conventional approaches fall short.

Government Support and Funding Pathways

The roadmap was formally released by the Principal Scientific Adviser, Ajay Kumar Sood , who highlighted that CCUS innovation would draw from the government’s ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) programme. This investment pipeline aims to catalyse rapid technological progress and shorten deployment timelines. Earlier, five CCU testbeds were announced in the cement industry to create a collaborative ecosystem for industrial decarbonisation research.

Technology Principles and Global Debate

CCUS involves capturing CO₂ from industrial sources, compressing and transporting it, and either storing it in geological formations or converting it into usable industrial products . Although many global climate roadmaps endorse CCUS as indispensable, critics argue that over-reliance on these technologies may extend fossil fuel dependence or introduce additional environmental risks if mismanaged.

Exam Oriented Facts

• India introduced its first CCUS R&D roadmap in 2025 .

• Supports the 2070 net-zero target .

• Backed by ₹1 lakh crore RDI funding .

• Five CCU testbeds launched earlier in the cement sector .