India has taken on the task of a calibrated phasedown of coal for its energy generation needs in line with its net zero commitment by the year 2070. Caught in the crosswinds of energy transition are entire communities that are almost solely dependent on coal mining for their survival. Therefore, a future coal phasedown raises important questions of equity and justice for affected people and communities. Based on an extensive review of secondary sources, in this article, we present a detailed account of the challenges facing just energy transition in India. We draw on global lessons of energy transition to propose two possible transition pathways for the country. Next, we apply a local framework to the issue of just transition by analysing a few case studies of mine closure in India. Finally, we synthesise the lessons learned from energy transition at home and abroad to present a few key policy recommendations for a just transition in India.
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