India achieves 20% ethanol blending target 5 years ahead of schedule, says ISMA

Share via: Ethanol blending target of 20% was originally set to be achieved by 2030. Ethanol blending target of 20% was originally set to be achieved by 2030. Get Launch Updates on Notify me India has achieved its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending with petrol five years ahead of schedule, the Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) said. In a statement, ISMA said that this achievement represents dramatic growth from the modest 1.5 per cent blending rate when the program began in 2014. It also claimed that the ethanol blending program has delivered substantial economic and environmental benefits. PTI has reported that ethanol production surged from 38 crore litres in 2014 to 661 crore litres blended as of June 2025, while generating 698 lakh tonnes in carbon dioxide emission reductions. The program has provided significant financial benefits to India’s agricultural sector, with farmers receiving ₹1.18 lakh crore and distilleries earning ₹1.96 lakh crore over the period, claimed ISMA. The initiative has also helped India save ₹1.36 lakh crore in foreign exchange costs. “This achievement is a monumental leap for India’s energy independence and rural prosperity,” said Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA, while also adding, “The government’s unwavering policy direction and visionary leadership have not only made this national success possible five years ahead of schedule but have also set a powerful precedent for our collective future in green energy.” The sugar industry has played a central role in India’s ethanol economy, supplying biofuel derived from sugarcane juice, B-heavy molasses and other agricultural by-products, ISMA said. The early achievement of the 20 per cent blending target, originally set for 2030, demonstrates India’s commitment to reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports while supporting rural economic development, the industry association added. Ethanol is blended with petrol to reduce the pollutant-emitting properties of the fossil fuel. Keeping pace with this development, automakers in the Indian automobile market too have been making engines that are compatible with the E20 petrol, which has 20 per cent ethanol blended. Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape. First Published Date: 27 Jul 2025, 09:45 am IST
Source: hindustantimes.com