During the inauguration of Noida International Airport in Jewar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the ethanol blending program as a historic initiative towards India’s energy future and increasing the income of farmers. He said that this initiative is playing an important role in making the country self-reliant as well as in environmental protection.
India moving rapidly towards E20 target
The Prime Minister said in his address that India is now moving rapidly towards the target of mixing 20% ethanol (E20) in petrol. He said that in the last 10-11 years, unprecedented progress has been made in this sector, which has given a new direction to the energy policy of the country.
Historic journey from 1% to 20%
Describing this achievement as a matter of pride for the country, PM Modi said that a decade ago ethanol blending was only 1%, which has now reached close to 20%. This change is the result of government schemes and farmers’ participation.
Big role in saving foreign exchange
He said that due to ethanol blending there has been a significant reduction in the import of crude oil. In the last one year, about 45 million barrels of crude oil import was saved, which has reduced the pressure on the country’s foreign exchange. He said that if ethanol blending was not done in petrol, then Rs 1.50 lakh crore of the country would have gone abroad.
New source of income for farmers
Linking ethanol production to farmers’ income, the Prime Minister said that farmers of sugarcane and other crops are getting direct benefits from it. This is strengthening the rural economy and creating new opportunities for farmers.
Future energy as green fuel
Describing ethanol as safe energy i.e. green fuel, PM Modi said that it is environment friendly and helps in reducing carbon emissions. He called it a necessary step for the sustainable development of the country. From the stage of Jewar Airport, the Prime Minister made it clear that ethanol blending is not just a fuel policy, but a strong foundation towards self-reliant India and self-reliant farmers.