Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced that India will establish the standard for 27% ethanol blending by the end of August. He made the statement while addressing the International Sugar Expo 2025, held as part of the 83rd Centennial Annual Convention of the Sugar Technologists’ Association of India (STAI).
Gadkari noted that India has successfully reached nearly 20% ethanol blending, in line with its set target. However, he pointed out that Brazil has already achieved 27% blending and emphasized the need for India to catch up. “I shared this concern with the Secretary under Minister Pralhad Joshi. Today, I’ve been informed that the standard for 27% ethanol will be finalized by the end of August,” he said.
Highlighting ethanol’s growing relevance, Gadkari said the biofuel has played a crucial role in bolstering the industry, curbing fuel imports, strengthening energy security, and opening up new income opportunities for farmers.
“Farmers are the backbone of our country, and our top priority remains ensuring their welfare and a stable income,” he stressed, reaffirming the government’s focus on boosting rural livelihoods through biofuel initiatives.
Gadkari also shared his long-term vision for ethanol usage in India. “We are moving toward 100% ethanol blending. That is my goal,” he declared, adding that such a move would support the long-term viability of the sugar industry.
Encouraging diversification in clean energy, Gadkari urged the sugar sector to explore other sustainable energy options. “The sugar industry should also look into Bio-CNG,” he said, pointing to the potential of compressed biogas as an additional clean energy resource.
