Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday said that corn-based ethanol has raised farmer incomes by nearly Rs 50,000 crore, underlining the role of biofuels in reducing India’s dependence on costly fossil fuel imports and cutting transport-related emissions, which contribute around 40% of the country’s pollution.
Speaking at the 5th International Climate Summit (ICS 2025), organised by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), Gadkari said farmers can play a central role in the country’s energy transition.
“Biofuels can reduce our oil imports and help clean the air. By producing ethanol, farmers are now not only growing food but also fuel for vehicles, aviation, construction, and equipment,” he said, adding that corn farmers have already benefitted from better prices for their produce.
Hemant Jain, President of PHDCCI, said the summit has become a key platform to advance India’s climate and energy agenda. He stressed that bioenergy provides renewable and decentralised energy sources, reducing the country’s reliance on imported fuels.
Global experts at the event also noted the importance of corn in the energy transition. Wagner Albuquerque de Almeida, Global Director at IFC, said bio-economy transitions are not only about climate action but also about creating jobs, prosperity, and stronger communities.
Dr. J.P. Gupta, Chair of the Environment & Climate Change Committee at PHDCCI, said India is witnessing a “Corn Revolution” that will boost both food and energy security while driving decarbonisation. “Ethanol is becoming the preferred choice not just for energy security but also for producing chemicals,” he noted.
The summit brought together global leaders from industry, research, and government. Sessions focused on second-generation (2G) ethanol, sustainable aviation fuel, bioplastics, hydrogen, and e-methanol.
