Consider the following statements about the EBP Programme: 1. The EBP Programme was launched in 2003 by the Government of India to promote ethanol blending with petrol . 2. The ethanol under this programme is procured only from sugarcane molasses, with no inclusion of other feedstocks such as maize or agricultural waste. 3. The programme aims to reduce India’s dependence on crude oil imports, support farmer incomes, and contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions by promoting renewable fuels. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? |ForumIAS

Q. Consider the following statements about the EBP Programme:
1.The EBP Programme was launched in 2003 by the Government of India to promote ethanol blending with petrol .
2.The ethanol under this programme is procured only from sugarcane molasses, with no inclusion of other feedstocks such as maize or agricultural waste.
3.The programme aims to reduce India’s dependence on crude oil imports, support farmer incomes, and contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions by promoting renewable fuels.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

[A] 1 and 2 only

[B] 2 only

[C] 1 and 3 only

[D] 1, 2 and 3

Answer: C

Notes:

Explanation: 1 and 3 only

Statement 1 is correct: The EBP Programme began in 2003 with 5% blending and has set an ambitious target to reach 20% blending (E20) by 2025-26.

Statement 2 is incorrect: While sugarcane molasses was initially the sole source, the programme now includes other feedstocks such as maize, bajra, and agricultural/food waste to diversify ethanol production.

Statement 3 is correct: The programme reduces crude oil imports, promotes renewable energy, supports farmers by creating additional markets for feedstocks, and helps cut down carbon emissions.

Source: AIR News

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