10% ethanol blended petrol to be mandatory from Oct

New Delhi, Mar 28 (UNI) The Government today said under the alternative fuel for transportation systems, 10 per cent Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) will become mandatory from October this year.

Earlier five per cent blending of Ethanol with petrol was made mandatory by the Government on October 9, 2007 in the country and 10 per cent blending was made optional, said a statement.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoP&NG) has mandated the use of five per cent EBP, subject to commercial viability in the entire country with effect from November 1, 2006.

Though North-Eastern States, Jammu and Kashmir, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshdweep have been exempted, as a result, release of five per cent EBP has been commenced at all locations in 15 States and four Union Territories.

The statement said the modalities for implementation are being worked out by the MoP&NG in consultation with stakeholders.

A broad based programme for research&development, production and utilisation of bio-diesel is under implementation by different Ministries.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has also prepared a Draft National Policy on Bio-fuels.

Under its ongoing Research, Development and Demonstration Programmes, MNRE has supported field trials of different blends of bio-diesel in diesel cars, use of hydrogen as fuel in motorcycles and three-wheelers and introduction of hydrogen - compressed natural gas (CNG) blends in different vehicles.

In addition, support is also being provided for development and promotion of battery operated vehicles.

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