Ethanol could transform India's farm economy: Nitin Gadkari

NEW DELHI: Use of ethanol as primary fuel for running vehicles could transform the farm economy of the country, road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari said on Wednesday.

The minister said that India has already set standards for using of ethanol and other biofuels. "We've asked the petroleum ministry to make ethanol readily available," Gadkari said while unveiling the Bajaj made three wheeler and motor bike that run on both ethanol on petrol (flexi fuel)

"Flexible fuel will not only curb pollution but will give a huge push to the farm sector. Farmers can make ethanol from rice bran and sugarcane waste. It will be a cost effective solution and an alternate mode of income," the minister said.


He also urged Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, who was present at the event, to push vehicles with flexi fuel in his state and also make farmers aware about the benefits of producing ethanol.