Recent developments in India’s biofuel sector have brought isobutanol into focus as a potential additive for diesel fuel. The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is conducting trials to blend 10% isobutanol with diesel. This move follows earlier unsuccessful attempts to blend ethanol with diesel. The government is also exploring the use of isobutanol as a standalone fuel and in combination with compressed natural gas (CNG) for agricultural machinery.
Isobutanol as a Biofuel Additive
Isobutanol is an alcohol with flammable properties commonly used as a solvent in industries like paints and coatings. Its potential as a biofuel additive lies in improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Trials are underway to test a 10% isobutanol blend with diesel. This blend aims to offer an alternative to ethanol-diesel mixtures which faced technical challenges.
Government Initiatives and Industry Response
Union Minister for Transport Nitin Gadkari brought into light the government’s push for biofuels during the India Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) conclave. Tractor manufacturers have shown interest in flex fuel engines that can run on a mix of CNG and isobutanol. The government’s encouragement aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and support farmers through biofuel-linked crop demand.
Ethanol Production and Farmer Benefits
The government’s ethanol blending programme has boosted corn-based ethanol production. Farmers have benefited with earnings exceeding ₹42,000 crore. Corn prices rose from ₹1,200 to around ₹2,600-2,800 per quintal since the blending initiative began. This has incentivised crop diversification and increased farmer incomes.
Sugarcane Pricing and Export Policies
ISMA has urged the government to revise the fair and remunerative price (FRP) of sugarcane to reflect rising cultivation costs. The association also called for an increase in the minimum support price and a higher export quota for sugar in the 2025-26 season. These measures aim to sustain the sugar industry amid growing biofuel demands.
Outlook for Sugar Production 2025-26
Sugar production for the 2025-26 season is projected at 349 lakh tonnes, rise from the previous year. Favourable monsoon conditions and healthy crop growth in Maharashtra and Karnataka contribute to this positive outlook. Higher sugar output supports both domestic consumption and biofuel feedstock needs.
Biofuel Export Potential
Union Minister for Consumer Affairs Pralhad Joshi encouraged biofuel producers to increase output and explore global markets. Expanding ethanol exports can strengthen India’s position in the international bioenergy sector and support economic growth.
Questions for UPSC:
- Critically discuss the role of biofuels in India’s energy security and rural economy.
- Examine the environmental impacts of blending alcohol-based fuels like ethanol and isobutanol with diesel.
- Analyse the challenges and opportunities in aligning agricultural pricing policies with biofuel production demands.
- Estimate the potential of biofuel exports to boost India’s trade balance and rural development.
