The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at progressively increasing the blending of ethanol in petrol, offering multiple economic, environmental, and strategic benefits for the nation. Ethanol, a biofuel derived from plant-based sources, is a cleaner and renewable alternative to fossil fuels.
Objectives of the EBP Programme
- Reducing Import Dependence: Blending ethanol with petrol helps reduce India’s reliance on crude oil imports, saving valuable foreign exchange and enhancing energy security.
- Farmers’ Income Boost: Promotes the production of ethanol from sugarcane and other agricultural products, providing additional income opportunities for farmers.
- Environmental Benefits: Ethanol has lower emissions compared to traditional petrol, contributing to improved air quality and helping mitigate climate change.
- Rural Development: Encourages the development of a domestic biofuel industry, generating employment and revitalizing rural economies.
- Technology Advancements: Supports research and innovation in ethanol production and engine technologies.
Progress Under the EBP Programme
India has made remarkable strides in increasing ethanol blending under this program:
- Blending Targets: India initially set a target of 10% ethanol blending by 2022 and subsequently advanced the target for 20% blending to 2025.
- Supportive Policies: The government has introduced policies like interest subventions and a favorable pricing mechanism for ethanol procurement.
- Infrastructure Expansion: Oil marketing companies (OMCs) have expanded infrastructure for ethanol procurement, storage, and blending.
- Rising Blend Percentages: Ethanol blend percentages in petrol have increased significantly in recent years.
Benefits Realized
- Reduced Oil Imports: Increased ethanol blending has resulted in significant savings on petroleum imports.
- Cleaner Air: Lower vehicular emissions due to ethanol use contribute to better air quality in cities.
- Farmer Support: Farmers have seen increased demand for their produce due to the EBP Programme.
FAQs About the EBP Programme
- What feedstocks are used for ethanol production in India? Primarily sugarcane, along with surplus rice, maize, and molasses.
- Is ethanol blending suitable for all vehicles? Modern vehicles are compatible with higher ethanol blends. Flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) are being developed for even greater adaptability.
MCQs
- The primary goal of the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is to:
- A. Promote electric vehicles
- B. Increase crude oil production
- C. Develop new tourist destinations
- D. Reduce dependence on imported oil
- Ethanol is a type of:
- A. Fossil fuel
- B. Biofuel
- C. Chemical fertilizer
- D. Synthetic fiber