Maize Becomes India Top Ethanol Feedstock in Major Clean Energy Shift

Ethanol blending means mixing ethanol with petrol.

This helps:

• Reduce fuel imports
• Lower pollution
• Support clean energy goals
• Increase farm income

India is expanding ethanol blending under its clean fuel programme.

Sugarcane Still Plays a Major Role

Although maize has taken the top position, sugarcane remains a very important ethanol source.

Sugarcane-Based Ethanol Supply

Sugarcane-based distilleries supplied around:

• 182 crore litres

This accounts for nearly 62% of contracted sugarcane-linked volumes.

Breakup of Sugarcane Ethanol Sources

Sugarcane Juice (SCJ)

• Around 130 crore litres

B-Heavy Molasses (BHM)

• Around 45 crore litres

C-Heavy Molasses (CHM)

• Around 7 crore litres

Sugarcane juice remains the biggest sugarcane-based contributor.

Importance for India’s Clean Energy Mission

The ethanol programme is an important part of India’s clean energy transition.

The expansion of grain-based ethanol can help:

• Reduce crude oil imports
• Improve energy security
• Support farmers
• Lower carbon emissions
• Promote sustainable fuel use

The rising use of maize may also increase demand for agricultural diversification.

Important Exam-Focused Points

Key Facts for Exams

• Maize became the largest ethanol feedstock in ESY 2025-26.
• Ethanol supplies crossed 515 crore litres in the first half of ESY 2025-26.
• All India Distillers Association compiled the industry estimates.
• Ethanol blending helps reduce fuel imports and pollution.
• Maize requires less water compared to sugarcane.
• Sugarcane juice, B-heavy molasses, and C-heavy molasses are major ethanol sources.
• India aims to expand ethanol blending beyond E20 levels.

FAQ

1. Which crop became India’s top ethanol feedstock in ESY 2025-26?

Maize became the top ethanol feedstock.

2. How much ethanol supply was recorded in the