The correct answer is (c), Energy.
The Union Budget for 2011-12 allocated Rs. 1,82,000 crore for the energy sector, which was the largest outlay of any sector. This was an increase of 24% over the previous year’s budget. The increase in allocation was due to the government’s focus on increasing energy production and distribution, as well as on promoting energy efficiency and conservation.
The energy sector includes the following sub-sectors:
- Power: This sub-sector includes the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. The government’s focus in this sub-sector is on increasing the installed capacity of power plants, improving the transmission and distribution network, and providing electricity to all households in the country.
- Petroleum and natural gas: This sub-sector includes the exploration, production, refining, and marketing of petroleum and natural gas. The government’s focus in this sub-sector is on increasing domestic production of petroleum and natural gas, reducing imports, and promoting the use of natural gas.
- Coal: This sub-sector includes the mining and production of coal. The government’s focus in this sub-sector is on increasing domestic production of coal, reducing imports, and promoting the use of cleaner coal technologies.
- Renewable energy: This sub-sector includes the generation of electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind, and biomass. The government’s focus in this sub-sector is on increasing the share of renewable energy in the total energy mix, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and promoting energy security.
The government’s focus on the energy sector is important for a number of reasons. First, energy is essential for economic growth and development. Second, energy is a key input for a number of other sectors, such as agriculture, industry, and transportation. Third, energy is a major source of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Fourth, energy security is a major concern for the country.
The government’s focus on the energy sector is likely to continue in the coming years. The government has set ambitious targets for increasing energy production, distribution, and efficiency. The government is also likely to focus on promoting renewable energy and energy conservation.