India Plans Ethanol Blending Beyond 20% Target
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · IR
Why in news
The Indian government has signalled that the ethanol blending programme will be extended beyond the current 20% target. This move leverages the country's 2,000 crore litre production capacity to support higher blends and flex-fuel vehicles.
Background
India's ethanol blending programme aims to reduce oil imports and promote renewable energy. The current target is 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025-26.
Key facts
in5points
Government signals ethanol blending beyond 20% target.
Production capacity of 2,000 crore litres has been created.
Higher blends and flex-fuel vehicles are planned.
Ethanol blending programme supports energy security and reduces emissions.
Flex-fuel vehicles can run on varying ethanol-petrol blends.
Prelims pointers
- Ethanol blending programme
- 20% blending target by 2025-26
- Flex-fuel vehicles
- 2,000 crore litre production capacity
Mains angles
- Discuss the significance of ethanol blending for India's energy security and environmental goals.
- Critically examine the challenges in scaling up ethanol production and blending beyond 20%.