Current Affairs-Topics

India becomes third-largest producer and consumer of ethanol

India has become the world's third-largest ethanol producer and consumer, thanks to significant government policy changes. The Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme has increased production capacity, leading to increased revenue for sugar mills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

India's Rise in Ethanol Production and Consumption

India has become the world's third-largest producer and consumer of ethanol
Achievement attributed to significant policy changes by the government
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme has boosted production capacity
Last decade saw increased revenue for sugar mills from ethanol sales
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions due to ethanol-blended petrol use
New distilleries in rural areas leading to direct and indirect job creation

Sugar Industry Growth and Farmer Benefits

Sugarcane cultivation area increased by 18% in the last decade
Sugarcane production rose by 40% in the same period
Introduction of Minimum Selling Price (MSP) for sugar in 2018
MSP protects interests of farmers and the sugar industry
Cane dues pendency at an all-time low, with 99% of Rs. 1.14 lakh crores paid to farmers
Farmers evolving from "Anna Dattas" (food providers) to "Urja Dattas" (energy providers)

Government Initiatives and Future Prospects

Commitment to a robust, sustainable sugar industry
Focus on innovation, public-private partnerships, and farmer-centric policies
Launch of National Green Hydrogen Mission with Rs. 19,744 crore outlay
India aims to become a global hub for green hydrogen production and export
Encouragement of sustainable packaging to promote Indian food globally
Collaboration opportunities with Brazil on biofuels production and use
Promotion of technology exchange and joint R&D in bioenergy sector
Opportunities in 2G&3G Ethanol, Green Hydrogen, and Bio-plastics
Global Biofuels Alliance offering new prospects for growth

Environmental and Economic Impact

Synergy between agriculture and green energy supporting sustainable future
Alignment with India's global climate goals of net-zero emissions by 2070
Early achievement of Paris Climate Agreement targets
Stable sugar prices benefiting consumers
Positive outlook for 2024-2025 sugar season due to good monsoon
India positioned as a global food basket
Potential for increased international cooperation in biofuels sector

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