India is increasing the use of maize for ethanol production as it expands its Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, with the government aiming to diversify feedstocks, strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on sugarcane-based ethanol.
The shift comes as the country rolls out E20 petrol, containing 20% ethanol blended with petrol. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said maize now accounts for around 35% of India’s ethanol production, marking a significant change in the country’s biofuel strategy, The Economic Times reported.
India’s ethanol blending programme has traditionally relied on sugarcane, but the government is now encouraging maize-based ethanol to address concerns over the sustainability and scalability of sugarcane. Maize requires less water and can be cultivated across a wider range of agro-climatic regions, offering greater flexibility to farmers while reducing pressure on water resources.
The government also sees feedstock diversification as a way to improve energy security by reducing dependence on imported crude oil and ensuring a stable supply of ethanol for blending. The E20 programme is part of India’s broader plan to reduce carbon emissions, cut oil imports and increase the use of domestically produced renewable fuel.
The transition, however, is expected to require investments in maize procurement, storage and processing infrastructure. Concerns have also been raised over balancing maize use for food and fuel, with agricultural economists calling for policy measures to prevent food price inflation and excessive dependence on a single crop.
Speaking to News18, Puri said the increasing contribution of maize to ethanol production demonstrates the progress of India’s biofuel programme. He said the policy is aimed at promoting cleaner fuels while creating new economic opportunities for farmers.
The move marks the next phase of India’s ethanol blending programme as the government seeks to expand biofuel production through a more diversified feedstock base while supporting its energy security and clean fuel objectives.
