Coal-to-chemicals: DME and India's energy security

Question (10 marks, ~150 words):

Coal-to-chemicals such as dimethyl ether (DME) can strengthen India's energy security but sit uneasily with its climate goals. Discuss.

Set context (Hormuz shock, LPG import dependence). Explain DME: 20% blend, ~6.3 mt displaced, ~₹34,000 cr saved; ₹37,500-cr scheme & 100 mt-by-2030 target. Weigh climate cost (CO2/water, high-ash coal, net-zero 2070). Way forward: CCUS, renewables, R&D — a bounded bridge.