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    10 Jul 2026Schemes and Projects

    What is Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme

    India
    In Short এক নজরে

    The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme

    The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is a Government of India initiative to mix ethanol (a biofuel made from crops such as sugarcane, maize, and damaged food grains) with petrol. The programme aims to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, cut pollution, and support farmers by creating demand for agricultural produce.

    Objectives

    • Reduce crude oil imports and improve energy security.
    • Lower greenhouse gas and vehicle emissions.
    • Provide better income opportunities for farmers.
    • Promote the use of renewable and cleaner fuels.

    The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme

    The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme is a Government of India initiative to mix ethanol (a biofuel made from crops such as sugarcane, maize, and damaged food grains) with petrol. The programme aims to reduce India's dependence on imported crude oil, cut pollution, and support farmers by creating demand for agricultural produce.

    Objectives

    • Reduce crude oil imports and improve energy security.
    • Lower greenhouse gas and vehicle emissions.
    • Provide better income opportunities for farmers.
    • Promote the use of renewable and cleaner fuels.

    Ethanol Sources

    Ethanol used under the programme is mainly produced from:

    • Sugarcane juice and molasses
    • Maize (corn)
    • Damaged food grains and surplus rice approved by the government
    • Other agricultural feedstocks

    Blending Levels

    • E10: Petrol containing 10% ethanol and 90% petrol.
    • E20: Petrol containing 20% ethanol and 80% petrol.

    India has expanded ethanol blending rapidly in recent years, with the long-term goal of making E20 fuel widely available across the country.

    Benefits

    • Saves foreign exchange by reducing oil imports.
    • Reduces carbon monoxide and other harmful emissions.
    • Increases farmers' income through additional demand for crops.
    • Supports India's climate and renewable energy goals.

    Challenges

    • Ensuring sufficient ethanol production without affecting food security.
    • Expanding storage and distribution infrastructure.
    • Increasing the number of vehicles compatible with E20 fuel.

    Exam Points to Remember

    • Launched: 2003 (pilot phase), later expanded nationwide.
    • Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.
    • Biofuel Used: Ethanol.
    • Target Fuel: Petrol.
    • Current Standard: E20 (20% ethanol blend) rollout across India.
    • Key Aim: Reduce oil imports, cut emissions, and support farmers.