Centre takes major step towards ethanol production

The Indian government is taking a major step towards boosting ethanol production by contemplating the establishment of dedicated enzyme manufacturing facilities under its recently launched BioE3 policy. 

The Department of Biotechnology is considering setting up the first such plant in Manesar, Haryana, to supply proposed 2G bio-ethanol plants in Mathura, Bhatinda, and Panipat. 

These efforts are part of a broader strategy to reduce dependence on imported enzymes, which are crucial for converting rice stubble into ethanol, a key component in India’s E20 fuel-blending mandate.

Developed by the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB), these locally produced enzymes have shown promising results in ethanol production trials. 

Collaborating with Praj Industries, ICGEB aims to scale up the production process, potentially reducing enzyme costs by two-thirds. This initiative aligns with the government’s goal to shift from fossil fuels to bio-based alternatives, leveraging biotechnology to create sustainable energy sources and consumer products.