India calls for global collaboration on sugar and biofuels

Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi highlighted the need for international collaboration and the adoption of advanced technologies for the further development of the sugar industry at a workshop titled ‘Sugar and Biofuels – Emerging Vistas,’ held at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi.

India is hosting a global event in the sugar sector, the ‘ISO Council Meeting,’ in New Delhi from June 25th to 27th. Delegates from over 30 countries and representatives from various international organizations are participating to discuss critical issues in the sugar and biofuel sectors.

During the event, Union Minister Joshi said, “It is a matter of great pride for all of us that the 64th Council Meeting of the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) is being organized in India this time. I am confident that this meeting will prove to be a milestone in taking the sugar sector to new heights of progress through collaboration and innovation among ISO member countries.”

He also highlighted the importance of sugarcane for the biofuel industry, noting that India has achieved almost 10 per cent ethanol blending, which is boosting renewable energy in the country.

As the world’s largest consumer and second-largest producer of sugar, India has been nominated as the Chair of the ISO for 2024. As part of the meeting agenda, India has organized several events, including an industrial tour for international delegates. On Monday, delegates visited a grain-based distillery in Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, to observe India’s adoption of state-of-the-art technology in the production of biofuels and other by-products.