Shah Urges Sugar Mills to Diversify Ethanol Production, Aims for 2025 Blending Target

On Saturday, Cooperation Minister Amit Shah called on sugar mills across India to diversify their sources for ethanol production, emphasizing the need for a broader approach to biofuel manufacturing. Speaking at an event organized by the National Federation of Cooperative Sugar Factories (NFCSF), Shah urged the industry to explore alternatives to traditional sugarcane for ethanol production.
The minister outlined the government’s ambitious goal to achieve a 20 percent ethanol blending target in gasoline by the 2025-26 fiscal year, advancing the original 2030 deadline. This accelerated timeline reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing energy security and environmental sustainability.
Shah praised the ethanol blending program for its role in reducing India’s crude oil import bill and addressing pressing environmental issues. He highlighted how the initiative not only contributes to energy independence but also supports rural economies and promotes sustainable agricultural practices.
The call for diversification comes as the government seeks to bolster the ethanol production capacity and increase the use of renewable energy sources. By encouraging sugar mills to utilize a variety of feedstocks, the government aims to create a more resilient and adaptable biofuel sector.
The NFCSF event served as a platform for discussing the future of ethanol production and the role of cooperative sugar mills in achieving national energy goals. The minister’s address underscored the importance of innovation and collaboration within the sector to meet the ambitious blending targets and contribute to a greener future.
As India moves closer to its 2025 ethanol blending target, the emphasis on diversifying feedstocks is expected to play a crucial role in ensuring a steady and sustainable supply of biofuels.