Energy independence has become a strategic priority for India owing to the rapid growth in energy demand, increasing dependence on imported fossil fuels, rising greenhouse gas emissions, and the need to ensure long-term energy security. Although fossil fuels have supported India's industrialization and economic development for several decades, their continued dominance has resulted in environmental degradation, energy import vulnerability, and increasing fiscal pressure due to volatile international fuel prices. India's commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 and expanding non-fossil electricity generation capacity presents a unique opportunity to accelerate the transition toward sustainable energy systems. This review examines the major pathways through which India can reduce fossil fuel dependence by promoting renewable energy technologies, green hydrogen, biofuels, transport electrification, energy efficiency, and supportive policy interventions. The study evaluates these alternatives from techno-economic, environmental, and policy perspectives while discussing recent developments in renewable energy deployment, industrial sustainability, and energy security. Furthermore, recent sustainability assessment frameworks, including integrated environmental and operational performance indicators, are discussed as decision-support tools for evaluating energy transition strategies. The review concludes that a diversified energy portfolio supported by technological innovation, effective governance, industrial participation, and long-term policy commitment can substantially reduce India's dependence on imported fossil fuels and strengthen national energy security while supporting sustainable economic growth.

Keywords: Energy independence; Fossil fuel substitution; Renewable energy; Green hydrogen; Energy security; Sustainable development; India; Energy transition.