India Sugar & Bio Energy Conference

Source – This post on India Sugar & Bio Energy Conference is based on the article “Food and Consumer Affairs Minister attends India Sugar & Bio Energy Conference” published in PIB on 27th September 2024.

Why in News?

The Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New & Renewable Energy recently addressed the India Sugar & Bio Energy Conference.

Key Highlights of the Conference

1. India as a Major Ethanol Player: India is now the third-largest ethanol producer and consumer globally, driven by government policies.

2. Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme: The EBP Programme has increased ethanol production, boosted sugar mill revenues, cut greenhouse gas emissions, and created jobs in rural areas through new distilleries.

3. Sustainable Sugar Industry: The government is committed to a robust sugar industry that aligns with economic growth and renewable energy goals, emphasizing innovation, public-private partnerships, and farmer-centric policies.

4. Growth in Sugarcane: Over the past decade, sugarcane cultivation has increased by 18% and production by 40%. The introduction of the Minimum Selling Price (MSP) in 2018 ensured timely payments to farmers.

5. Farmers as Energy Providers: Farmers are evolving from “Anna Dattas” (food providers) to “Urja Dattas” (energy providers), playing a crucial role in India’s renewable energy ambitions, including net-zero emissions by 2070.

6. Biofuel Collaboration with Brazil: India seeks cooperation with Brazil in biofuels, focusing on technology exchange, R&D, and investment in ethanol, biodiesel, biojet fuel, and green hydrogen.

7. Stable Sugar Prices and Positive Outlook: Sugar prices remain stable, with a favourable production outlook for 2024-2025 due to a good monsoon.

8. Sustainable Packaging and Bharat Brand: India is pushing for global promotion of the “Bharat Brand” and sustainable packaging to strengthen its position as a “Global Food Basket.”

UPSC Syllabus: Indian Economy