Ethanol is a type of alcohol, chemically known as ethyl alcohol (C₂H₅OH), and is commonly used as a biofuel and industrial solvent. It's produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast, typically from plant-based raw materials like sugarcane, maize, or other starchy crops.

Ethanol is a type of alcohol, chemically known as ethyl alcohol (C₂H₅OH), and is commonly used as a biofuel and industrial solvent. It's produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast, typically from plant-based raw materials like sugarcane, maize, or other starchy crops.

Production of Ethanol

The process of producing ethanol involves two main steps:

1. Fermentation: Raw materials like sugarcane, maize, or wheat are processed to extract sugars. These sugars are then fermented by yeast to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide.

2. Distillation: After fermentation, the ethanol is separated from the mixture using distillation, yielding a high-concentration ethanol product.

In the case of India, sugarcane is one of the most prominent sources of ethanol, leveraging the existing infrastructure of sugar mills. The process uses molasses, a by-product of sugar production, as the feedstock for ethanol production.

Utilization of Ethanol

Ethanol is primarily used in:

Fuel: As a biofuel or in blended fuel (e.g., ethanol blended with petrol). It's seen as a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels because it produces fewer greenhouse gases and is renewable.

Industrial Use: Ethanol is also used in industries like pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and beverages.

Alcohol-Based Products: It is a key ingredient in alcoholic beverages and sanitizers.

Why the Indian Government is Supporting Ethanol Procurement

India has been actively promoting the production and use of ethanol for several reasons:

1. Energy Security: By increasing the production of ethanol from domestic crops, India can reduce its dependence on imported crude oil and improve its energy security.

2. Environmental Benefits: Ethanol, when blended with petrol, reduces the carbon footprint of transportation, helping the government meet its environmental and climate goals.

3. Rural Economic Support: Promoting ethanol production supports the agricultural sector, particularly sugarcane farmers, providing them with an additional income stream.

4. Government Procurement Price: The Indian government sets a minimum procurement price for ethanol to incentivize production. This ensures a stable market for ethanol producers and encourages higher production, ensuring the supply needed for ethanol-blended petrol programs (such as the 20% ethanol blending target by 2025). By guaranteeing good prices, the government helps support farmers and businesses that rely on the ethanol market.

Thus, India's push for ethanol production is part of its broader strategy to boost renewable energy, support local agriculture, and reduce carbon emissions.