Context:
India is preparing to raise its ethanol blending target in petrol to 30% by 2030, after successfully achieving 20% blending in March 2025, well ahead of the original 2030 timeline. The previous target of 20% was advanced to the 2024–25 ethanol supply year, which runs from November 1 to October 31.
Key Highlights:
Timeline of Ethanol Blending Progress:
- 2022–23: 12.06% average blending
- 2023–24: 14.6% average blending
- By March 2025: 20% achieved (nationwide)
- New Goal: 30% blending by 2030
Economic & Environmental Impact:
- â‚ą1.2 trillion saved in foreign exchange over the past 10 years
- 19.3 million metric tonnes of crude oil substituted
- â‚ą1.04 trillion paid to farmers
- 62.6 million metric tonnes of carbon emissions avoided
Industry Initiatives & Future Plans:
- Significant investments by sugar mills in ethanol distilleries
- ISMA urges government to expand availability of E100 fuel (pure ethanol)
- Ethanol-blended petrol now available at all OMC retail outlets, up from 27,900 in 2014
Government Strategy:
- Inter ministerial consensus achieved on the 30% blending target
- Ongoing debate on whether to implement the target through a staggered or direct approach
India’s accelerated ethanol blending achievements have delivered significant economic, environmental, and rural development benefits. With the groundwork laid and capacity expanded, the country is well-positioned to meet its ambitious 30% ethanol blending target by 2030, further reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels and supporting a more sustainable bioenergy future.
