The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), under its Jaivik Pahal (Bio Initiative), held the 4th International Conference on World Biofuel Day 2025 in New Delhi with the theme “How India’s Auto Industry Can Help Build a Biofuel Economy.” The event brought together government officials, experts from around the world, industry leaders, and environmental advocates to plan the way forward for a biofuel-driven transport system in India, reports Machine Maker.
The opening session, “Planning the Way Ahead for Biofuel Use in India”, focused on policies, new technologies, and teamwork across industries to speed up the adoption of biofuels. SIAM Executive Director Prashant K Banerjee told participants that using ethanol supports India’s environmental goals while helping create cleaner cities, stronger rural economies, and healthier communities. He said biofuels could become a major part of India’s identity worldwide if innovation and partnerships between government and business continue to grow.
Guest of Honour Sanjeev Chopra, Secretary, Department of Food and Public Distribution, praised India for reaching 20% ethanol blending five years ahead of its 2030 target. He credited this to the 2018 National Biofuel Policy and the approval of more raw materials for ethanol production. Brazilian Ambassador Kenneth Félix Haczynski da Nóbrega stressed that strong and consistent rules are just as important as technology and resources to make biofuels a reliable source of cleaner air, rural jobs, and energy independence.
Industry representatives shared their progress. RS Sachdeva of VE Commercial Vehicles spoke about advances in biodiesel blending and adding biogas to CNG, noting that a steady supply of raw materials and cooperation between sectors are key. From Japan, Ryuta Niimura of Honda Motor Co said ethanol can be made in India, cuts carbon emissions, works with existing fuel systems, and supports local economies.
Kamal Kishore Chatiwal of Indraprastha Gas Ltd said biogas could account for 10% of CNG by 2030 if issues like collecting raw materials and separating waste are solved. From the sugar industry, Niraj Shirgaokar of The Ugar Sugar Works Ltd said ethanol can both lower transport emissions and help farmers. He suggested gradually raising the national blending target from E20 to E30.
Three special sessions explored how to scale up biofuels. “Ethanol Blending Program: Beyond E20”, led by Puneet Anand of Hyundai Motor India, looked at raising blending levels, noting that most new vehicles are already E20-compliant. “Developing Advanced Biofuels”, chaired by Harjeet Singh of Hero MotoCorp, presented work on second-generation ethanol, compressed biogas, and low-carbon fuels. “Sustainable Feedstock for Atmanirbhar Biofuel Production”, moderated by R Ramaprabhu of Mahindra & Mahindra, discussed ensuring a steady supply of raw materials, including crops like sweet sorghum.
The conference also released a paper titled “Ethanol’s Role in India’s Decarbonisation Journey”, outlining steps to increase biofuel use in transport. Speakers agreed that meeting India’s clean transport goals will require strong partnerships between government, industry, and research groups.
SIAM, which represents leading vehicle and engine makers in India, works to promote safety, environmental protection, and innovation in the automobile sector. It is recognised under the Income Tax Act as serving public interest, with initiatives that aim to deliver both economic growth and social benefits.
