Government Schemes and Programmes

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option d

Explanation
Supreme Court recently dismissed a petition that challenged the Central Government’s ethanol blending policy.

Statement 1 is correct: Originally, the target for 20% ethanol blending (E20) was set for 2030, but it was advanced to 2025 under the amended National Policy on Biofuels (2022). India has made rapid progress, achieving nearly 18% blending by early 2025.

Statement 2 is correct: The National Ethanol Blending Policy permits ethanol production from a wide variety of feedstocks to ensure steady supply and enhance farmer income. These include sugarcane juice and molasses, maize and corn, as well as damaged or surplus food grains such as broken rice, spoiled potatoes, and grains unfit for human consumption. By diversifying the sources of ethanol production, the policy not only reduces dependence on a single crop but also promotes efficient use of agricultural produce, supports farmers by creating additional market avenues, and strengthens India’s energy security.

Statement 3 is correct: The Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) aims to cut crude oil imports, reduce greenhouse gas emissions through cleaner fuel, and boost rural economies by creating demand for farm produce. While current import reduction is modest, its long-term potential remains significant.