Q. According to India's National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels?
- Cassava
- Damaged wheat grains
- Groundnut seeds
- Horse gram
- Rotten potatoes
- Sugar beet
Select the correct answer using the code given below: (UPSC Prelims 2020)
Answer:
1, 2, 5 and 6 only
Notes: The correct answer is
[A] 1, 2, 5 and 6 only. The
National Policy on Biofuels (2018) expanded the scope of raw materials for ethanol production to include non-food and surplus food items to ensure energy security.
- Included Raw Materials (1, 2, 5, 6): The policy allows the use of sugar-containing materials like Sugar Beet and Sweet Sorghum; starch-containing materials like Cassava and Rotten Potatoes; and Damaged food grains (unfit for human consumption) such as Wheat, broken rice, and maize.
- Excluded Raw Materials (3, 4): Groundnut seeds and Horse gram (a pulse) are not specifically categorized as primary feedstock for biofuel under this policy. These are essential food crops and high-protein sources, and using them for fuel could jeopardize food security.
- Key Evolution: The policy was amended in 2022 to advance the target of 20% ethanol blending in petrol to 2025-26. It categorizes biofuels into Basic Biofuels (First Generation - 1G) and Advanced Biofuels (2G, 3G).
By utilizing damaged grains and rotten vegetables, the policy aims to provide farmers with an alternate market for their surplus or spoiled produce while reducing dependence on crude oil imports.