New Delhi: India is focused on increasing ethanol blending, with the sugar industry playing a significant role, Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri said on Friday, reported The Times of India.
In a video message delivered at the India Sugar and Bio-Energy Conference, Minister Puri commended the commendable efforts of the Indian Sugar Mills Association (ISMA) and the International Sugar Organisation (ISO). He remarked, “We have entered a new era in the pursuit of sustainable growth, and nations coming together for sustainability is a great move. India is focused on continuously raising the bar in terms of ethanol blending. The sugar industry has played a significant role in it, and it has a larger role to play in sustainable aviation fuels.”
Addressing the conference, Aditya Jhunjhunwala, President of ISMA, underscored the paramount importance of appropriate policy support to facilitate India’s attainment of its sustainability objectives. He asserted, “We are well on track to realizing our goal of achieving a 20% ethanol blending rate by 2025. However, we must look beyond 2025, considering the projected surge in demand by the close of this decade.”
Sangeet Singla, representing the Ministry of Food, emphasized the imperative of addressing the holistic upliftment of farmers, particularly in areas concerning healthcare and education. Singla stated, “To empower our farmers and fortify the rural economy, our focus must encompass not only environmental concerns but also social facets, including healthcare and education. It is essential that we prioritize sustainable farming practices, curtail excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and provide comprehensive training to our farmers. The sugar industry must take the lead in training farmers.”
