Centre's Ethanol Blending Programme
The Indian government has increased the allocation of surplus broken rice from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) for the ethanol blending programme. This move aims to bolster the E20 ethanol blending initiative, which integrates up to 20% ethanol in petrol, by addressing misinformation and supporting scientific and international best practices.
Key Clarifications from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
- Water Consumption:
Rejects the claim that producing one litre of ethanol uses 10,000 litres of water. Surplus rice, not impacting food security, is used, and distilleries consume 3-5 litres of processed water per litre of ethanol, often using Zero Liquid Discharge systems. - Crop Utilization:
Maize, which needs less irrigation than paddy, constitutes over 40% of the ethanol supply and is promoted via higher minimum support prices. - International Usage:
Ethyl-blended fuels are internationally accepted, with countries like the USA, Brazil, and Canada using similar fuels for decades. - Economic Aspects:
FCI rice is sold for ethanol production at significantly subsidized rates, indicating government support for the blending programme. - Vehicle Performance:
Trials by the Automotive Research Association of India indicate no significant negative impact on vehicle performance or fuel efficiency. - Engine and Component Safety:
Research by Indian institutions found no major issues with drivability or material compatibility, except potential earlier replacement needs for certain rubber parts in older vehicles. - Warranty and Insurance:
Automobile manufacturers confirm that warranties and insurance remain valid for vehicles designed or approved for E20 fuel. - Insect Attraction:
Fuel-grade ethanol is processed to remove sugars and includes denaturants to deter insects. - Legal Clarifications:
The Supreme Court proceedings were about procurement contracts, not the blending programme's merits. - Environmental Impact:
Ethanol plants adhere to environmental regulations, contributing to reduced CO2 emissions and foreign exchange savings.
Achievements and Future Projections
- Ethanol Blending Target:
India reached a 20% ethanol blending target in petrol by December 2025, ahead of the planned timeline. - Production Capacity:
The installed production capacity is approximately 2,000 crore litres, with procurement expected to surpass 1,200 crore litres in the 2025-26 supply year.
