IS IT APPROPRIATE TO USE RICE AS FEEDSTOCK FOR ETHANOL PRODUCTION IN INDIA – By N.S.Venkataraman With the object of reducing import dependence on crude oil and as an eco friendly strategy, Government of India is implementing plans to blend ethanol with petrol. This is an appropriate strategy. As of February, 28, 2025, India has achieved 17.98 % ethanol blending rate under the ongoing ethanol supply year ( 2024-25 ). The country is now moving towards achieving 20% blending target milestone. This is a remarkable achievement . To achieve the target of 25% ethanol blending , it is necessary to increase the production of ethanol in the country substantially. Feedstock for ethanol production : In order to make ethanol available in adequate quantity, Government of India has initiated several proactive policies and has introduced incentive schemes. Number of new projects for production of ethanol are under implementation. The sugar industry ...
