Ethanol blending progress
India Advances with Isobutanol Blending in Diesel: India has made major progress in ethanol blending with petrol, achieving the 20% target ahead of schedule. This policy raised farmer incomes and doubled corn prices due to rising demand. However, ethanol blending with diesel failed to succeed because of corrosion issues and water absorption. Static GK fact: India is the third-largest consumer of crude oil in the world after the US and China.
Isobutanol as an alternative
Isobutanol is a four-carbon alcohol that provides higher energy density compared to ethanol, making it closer to diesel in performance. It absorbs less water, thus reducing pipeline corrosion risks. This property gives it a technological edge in blending with diesel. Isobutanol can also be blended with CNG for tractors and used directly as fuel in certain machinery. Static GK Tip: Isobutanol was first industrially produced in the early 20th century for use as a solvent.
Current trials in India
The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is conducting trials with 10% isobutanol-diesel blends. The trials test engine compatibility, fuel efficiency, and emission performance. Government initiatives also promote flex-fuel tractors using isobutanol and CNG mixtures to support the farm sector. These steps align with the National Biofuel Policy 2018, which aims for energy diversification and reduced fossil fuel imports.
Farmer and industry benefits
The biofuel drive has already given farmers over ₹42,000 crore in income from corn-based ethanol. The sugar industry, closely linked to ethanol feedstock, is also expanding. In the 2025-26 season, sugar production is expected to rise by 20% due to favorable monsoon conditions. Industry associations are pushing for a hike in the Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane and larger export quotas to stabilize revenues. Static GK fact: FRP is the minimum price set by the government for sugarcane procurement from farmers.
Policy and technology roadmap
Officials highlight the need for advanced biofuel technologies, including second-generation ethanol from bamboo and crop residues. The push for isobutanol blending is part of broader efforts to reduce oil import dependency, strengthen rural economies, and ensure long-term energy security. Industry leaders emphasize aligning sugarcane pricing with rising costs while expanding export opportunities to sustain growth in the biofuel sector.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
India Advances with Isobutanol Blending in Diesel:
| Topic | Detail |
| Ethanol blending in petrol | India achieved 20% target ahead of schedule |
| Ethanol blending in diesel | Faced corrosion and water absorption issues |
| Isobutanol property | Four-carbon alcohol with higher energy density |
| ARAI role | Testing 10% isobutanol-diesel blends |
| Flex-fuel tractors | Combination of isobutanol and CNG under trial |
| Farmer earnings | Over ₹42,000 crore from ethanol-related crops |
| Sugar production 2025-26 | Expected rise of 20% with good monsoon |
| FRP | Minimum price fixed for sugarcane procurement |
| National Biofuel Policy | Launched in 2018 for energy diversification |
| Oil consumption | India is the third-largest consumer globally |
