The Grain Ethanol Manufacturer’s Association (GEMA), the apex body representing India’s grain-based ethanol producers, has urged the government to accelerate the transition to higher ethanol blending and to fast-track the nationwide rollout of Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs). The association asserts that this move is critical for reducing India’s dependence on fossil fuels, strengthening energy security, and supporting the country’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070.
India recently achieved the government’s target of 20% ethanol blending in petrol ahead of schedule. Following this milestone, GEMA recommends raising the blend further—taking cues from Brazil, where ethanol blending ranges from E27 base petrol to FFVs that replace up to 55% of petrol consumption.
Dr. C.K. Jain, President of GEMA, said, “India must now move beyond E20. Even a 1–2 percent increase—within the tolerance levels of existing vehicles—will ease the pressure on the ethanol industry and maintain production momentum. The roadmap for higher blends must be clear, ambitious, and backed by a forward-looking policy framework.”
GEMA highlighted that the ethanol industry has already invested heavily to support increased production and stands ready to collaborate with stakeholders to expand distribution infrastructure. However, timely policy decisions and stronger inter-ministerial coordination are essential to maintain industry confidence and achieve market readiness.
The association emphasised multiple benefits of higher ethanol blending—lower carbon emissions, reduced crude oil imports, and stronger rural economies driven by increased demand for crops such as maize, rice, and sugarcane. “Ethanol is not just a fuel—it is an economic multiplier that creates rural jobs and supports farmers,” Jain added.
The organisation also called for urgent progress on Flex-Fuel Vehicles. GEMA noted that FFVs can run on multiple ethanol–petrol blends without compromising performance and are central to leveraging India’s growing ethanol supply.
“A cohesive approach involving policymakers, automakers, and scientific institutions is essential to build a sustainable biofuel ecosystem,” said Mr. Abhinav Singal, Treasurer, GEMA.
GEMA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the government in developing policy clarity, infrastructure investment, and public–private partnerships to accelerate India’s ethanol transition—driving clean mobility while promoting a self-reliant energy future.