Q.(a) Explain the various sources of energy in Tamil Nadu.

(a) Tamil Nadu's energy comes from thermal, hydro and nuclear (conventional) sources and from wind, solar, biomass and cogeneration (renewables), where the state is a national leader. (b) ICT is applied in economics through e-commerce, e-governance, digital banking, online markets, data analytics and financial inclusion.

(a) Sources of energy in Tamil Nadu

Conventional (non-renewable) sources:

• Thermal power — coal-based stations (Tuticorin, Mettur, Ennore) and the lignite-based Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) plants.
• Hydro-electric power — generated at Mettur, Papanasam, Kundah, Periyar and other dams.
• Nuclear power — the Madras Atomic Power Station at Kalpakkam and the Kudankulam nuclear plant.

Non-conventional (renewable) sources — Tamil Nadu is a national pioneer:

• Wind energy — large wind farms at Muppandal/Aralvaimozhi (Kanyakumari) and in Tirunelveli; TN is a leading wind-power state.
• Solar energy — large solar parks such as Kamuthi (Ramanathapuram).
• Biomass and biogas, and cogeneration in sugar mills.

This mix of conventional and renewable sources supports the state's industries, agriculture and households.

(b) ICT ideas used in economics

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is widely applied in modern economic activity:

• E-commerce / online trading — buying and selling of goods and services over the internet.
• E-governance and e-administration — delivery of government services and information online.
• Digital banking and payments — net banking, mobile banking, UPI and electronic fund transfer, reducing cash use.
• Online agricultural markets — e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) and market-price information for farmers. …