India Achieves 20% Ethanol-Blended Petrol, Defies Criticism Amid Fuel Efficiency Concerns

India has achieved the target of mixing 20% ethanol with petrol sold at stations across the country, marking a significant milestone in the country's fuel-blending programme. While many car-owners had expressed concerns over the move, citing reduced fuel efficiency and potential damage to engine parts, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari defended the policy, arguing that ethanol is an import substitute, cost-effective, and pollution-free. The programme has already yielded benefits for farmers, with mills in the country clearing 90% of dues payable to farmers for cane purchases.

Key Takeaways:

• The Indian government has achieved the target of mixing 20% ethanol with petrol, with the aim of reducing fossil fuel imports and promoting indigenous fuel production.
• Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari defended the policy, stating that ethanol is an import substitute, cost-effective, and pollution-free.
• The programme has yielded benefits for farmers, with mills clearing 90% of dues payable to farmers for cane purchases.
• The government aims to increase biodiesel production, with a goal of mixing 10% isobutanol with diesel.
• Bharati Arun, managing director of Bajaj Auto, emphasized the importance of increasing ethanol-blending in India, citing the country's potential to become a significant player in the global biofuels market.
• Union food minister Pralhad Joshi highlighted the environmental benefits of ethanol production, stating that it has led to energy security and environmental benefits for the country.

Statistics:

• India spends Rs.22 lakh crore annually on fossil fuel imports.
• Mills in the country have cleared 90% of dues payable to farmers for cane purchases.
• The Indian government aims to mix 10% biodiesel with diesel.
• Isobutanol can be commercially produced from a variety of biomass feedstocks, such as corn, wheat, sorghum, barley, and sugar cane.

Sources:

• HT Chandigarh
• Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM)
• Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA)
• HT Digital Content Services