Ethanol solution to be found after April; IOC to open 300 ethanol fuel stations: Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has reassured sugar mill owners that a resolution to their concerns regarding the government’s policy on using sugar for ethanol production would be addressed post-April. He made the revelation at the International Sugarcane Conference in Pune.

Speaking at the event organized by the Vasantdada Sugar Institute, Gadkari highlighted that, despite the government’s initial ban on using sugarcane juice for ethanol, the decision was later reversed, allowing the use of both sugarcane juice and B-heavy molasses for green fuel production. However, the diversion of sugar was capped at 17 lakh tonnes.

Underlining the significance of ethanol production, Gadkari urged the sugar industry to prioritize “Maximum ethanol, minimum sugar” and promote flex engine vehicles. He assured that the government would take appropriate measures regarding the biofuel post-April, expressing confidence based on discussions with the Prime Minister and other ministers.

300 Ethanol Plants by IOC

Nitin Gadkari also announced that the Indian Oil Corp (IOC), the country’s leading oil refiner, will be establishing 300 ethanol fuel stations in the country.

Gadkari disclosed this information on the sidelines of a sugar conference in Pune, stating, “My proposal for the establishment of ethanol pumps has been approved by the petroleum minister. Indian Oil has made the decision to launch 300 ethanol pumps across the country.”

India, being the world’s third-largest oil importer and consumer, is committed to reducing its carbon footprint to achieve its 2070 net-zero carbon goal.