The Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) has brought significant multi-sectoral benefits, empowering farmers, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing India’s energy security. The government cited notable environmental achievements such as a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions by over 700 lakh tonnes, significantly contributing to India’s climate change mitigation goals and international environmental commitments.Further, E20 blending has reduced India’s dependence on crude oil imports, saving over Rs 1.2 lakh crore in foreign exchange since 2014–15.Finally, ethanol production has facilitated payments exceeding Rs 1.04 lakh crore to farmers, strengthening rural incomes. Naiknavare reiterated that EBP helped the sugar sector to become financially sustainable by ensuring timely payment to sugar farmers.“It has ensured timely payments to farmers, reduced dependence on government financial support, and fostered the growth of India’s rural bioeconomy and strengthens the nation’s energy self-reliance,” he said.
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