Priyank Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for Electronics, IT & BT, and Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, announced on July 16 that the state is preparing to introduce a new bioenergy policy aimed at advancing sustainable energy and rural development.
The announcement came after Kharge chaired the annual general meeting of the Karnataka Bio-fuel Development Board. He noted that the state government had undertaken a thorough review of the bioenergy sector and recognized the urgent need for a cohesive and forward-looking policy.
“We had a focused discussion on the urgent need for a comprehensive Bioenergy Policy for Karnataka,” Kharge said.
He emphasized that the policy would go beyond promoting alternative fuels. “This is also about increasing farmers’ incomes by creating market opportunities for agricultural residue and waste, generating green jobs in rural areas, promoting sustainable energy practices, and supporting our broader net-zero and climate action targets,” he added.
The new policy is expected to be unveiled in the coming months. According to Kharge, it will aim to position Karnataka as a frontrunner in clean, decentralized, and inclusive energy solutions rooted in the farming community.
“The future of energy is circular, decentralized, and inclusive. And Karnataka is ready to lead the way,” he said.
