Recently, the Union Cabinet approved some crucial amendments to the National Policy on Biofuels 2018, a policy initiated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The key amendments include allowing more feedstocks for biofuel production, advanced ethanol blending target, incorporation of new members in the National Biofuel Coordination Committee (NBCC), and the granting of permission for biofuel exports in specific cases.
Key Amendments of the Policy
One significant amendment is the government’s approval of more feedstocks for biofuel manufacturing. Feedstocks are raw materials utilized in industrial processes, and increasing their range can enhance biofuel production scope.
The central government also plans to expedite its ethanol blending target. Initially set for 2030, the goal is now pushed forward to 2025-26. This proactive move intends to increase biofuel production within the country under the Make in India program, particularly in Special Economic Zones (SEZ) and Export Oriented Units (EOUs).
Another important adjustment involves adding new members to the National Biofuel Coordination Committee (NBCC). Constituted under the Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas (P&NG) chairmanship, the NBCC ensures comprehensive coordination, efficient implementation, and vigilant monitoring of the biofuel program with members from 14 different ministries.
The final key amendment is the potential permission for exporting biofuels in specified cases, expanding the opportunities for this thriving sector beyond domestic borders.
Significance of the Amendments
These amendments bring several positive impacts. For instance, they strengthen the Make in India drive, which could lead to a decrease in petroleum product imports through an increase in biofuel generation.
Additionally, the amendments align with the Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative, promoting self-reliance. With more feedstocks allowed for biofuel production, India moves closer to the prime minister’s vision of energy independence by 2047.
Moreover, these policy amendments attract and encourage the development of local technologies. This not only supports the Make in India drive but also creates additional employment opportunities in the country.
National Policy on Biofuels, 2018
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas notified the National Policy on Biofuels, superseding the previous policy established in 2009. The policy categorizes biofuels into “Basic Biofuels” and “Advanced Biofuels,” each with their respective fiscal incentives. Furthermore, it broadens the scope of raw materials for ethanol production by incorporating sugarcane juice, sugar beet, sweet sorghum, corn, cassava, and damaged food grains unfit for human consumption.
Related Biofuel Initiatives
Aside from the National Policy on Biofuels, several other initiatives contribute to the industry’s growth. The Ethanol Blended Petrol program aims to reduce pollution, conserve foreign exchange, and increase value addition in the sugar industry, particularly assisting in clearing farmers’ cane price arrears.
Along with this, the Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana 2019 aims to create a conducive environment for setting up commercial projects and fostering research and development in the 2G Ethanol sector.
Moreover, the GOBAR (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources) DHAN scheme focuses on managing and converting farm waste into useful compost, biogas, and bio-CNG. This contributes to village cleanliness and bolsters rural household income.
Lastly, the Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) initiative by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) aims to create an environment for the collection and conversion of used cooking oil to biodiesel, thereby supporting sustainable use of resources.
National Policy on Biofuels Exam Questions
For prospective civil servants, comprehending India’s National Policy on Biofuels is crucial for the UPSC Civil Services Examination. A notable previous question asked which raw materials, according to the policy, could be used for biofuel production. Out of the options – cassava, damaged wheat grains, groundnut seeds, horse gram, rotten potatoes, and sugar beet – the correct choices are cassava, damaged wheat grains, rotten potatoes, and sugar beet.
