New Delhi: In a National BioFuel Coordination Committee meeting, chaired by Union Petroleum Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri, discussions took place for promoting production of ethanol from maize with all stake holders especially with Department of Agriculture and Department Food and Public distribution (DFPD) to make it a prominent feedstock in coming years. It was discussed that in the last few years there is increase in Maize cultivation area, yield per hectare and production. Work has been initiated by this ministry in consultation with Department of Agriculture and DFPD to further develop high starch yielding varieties, improve quality of maize DDGS (Dried Distillers Grain Solids) by removing aflatoxins, faster registration of new seed varieties with high starch. To further promote maize training program for distillers with seed companies has also been initiated.
Yesterday, another important announcement was made for promoting biofuels in the country. Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF/Bio- ATF) initial indicative blending percentage targets were set by the committee. Based on the comments received from the stakeholders, like MoCA, Niti Aayog, OMCs, etc., the capacities of Sustainable Aviation Fuel plants coming up in the country and projected ATF sales, the following initial indicative blending percentages of SAF in ATF are approved:
(i)1% SAF indicative blending target in 2027 ( Initially for International flights)
(ii)2% SAF blending target in 2028 (Initially for International flights )
Recently, the Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA), representing various Grain Ethanol Manufacturers in India, has approached Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri, urging a swift directive to oil-marketing companies (OMCs) to increase the procurement price for ethanol produced from damaged foodgrain (DFG) and maize.
In a letter sent to them, GEMA said, “MOPNG/OMCs should be advised to review the grain ethanol price based on the current open market landed cost of feedstock (DFG & Maize) and a fair & remunerative price be given for grain ethanol so as to ensure viability and consistent supplies during ESY ’23-24 by fixing the per liter price at Rs. 69.54 for DFG and at Rs. 76.80 for Maize (as against announced Rs.64 for DFG & Rs.66.07 for maize).”
(With inputs from PIB)
