India's Drive for 100% Ethanol Blending Gains Momentum Amid West Asia Crisis

Nitin Gadkari, India's Minister of Road Transport and Highways, outlined a vision for the nation to fully embrace ethanol blending as a means of ensuring energy self-reliance. Amidst geopolitical tensions in West Asia affecting oil exports, Gadkari urged a shift towards alternative fuel sources to safeguard India's energy future.

Speaking at the Indian Federation of Green Energy's Green Transport Conclave, Gadkari mentioned the upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency III standards set to take effect from April 2024, noting their minimal impact on electric and flex-fuel vehicles. He highlighted India's significant reliance on oil imports and the pressing need to transition to bio-fuels and green hydrogen.

Gadkari pointed out the environmental and economic benefits of this transition, citing the high import costs of fossil fuels and advocating for innovations in hydrogen fuel transport and production. He encouraged automobile companies to prioritize quality to access new markets amid lobbying pressures from traditional petroleum sectors.