Mysuru: Sugarcane growers urge PM to stay firm on ethanol policy
A farmers' association in Mysuru has urged the Prime Minister to maintain the current ethanol blending policy despite criticism from opposition parties. They argue that the policy is vital for increasing farmer income and reducing India's dependence on crude oil imports.
Why it matters
The debate over ethanol policy highlights the tension between agricultural economic interests and concerns regarding fuel efficiency and engine health.
Amid the controversy surrounding the Centre’s ethanol blending policy, a farmers’ body from Mysuru has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to continue to promote ethanol production and usage, ignoring the criticism from Opposition parties and various organisations.
Indian Sugarcane Farmers’ Association, led by its president Kurubur Shanthkumar, who is also the president of State Sugarcane Growers’ Association, Mysuru, in a letter addressed to the Prime Minister, argued that the Centre’s policy is crucial for farmers’ welfare and the country’s economic self-reliance.
The association welcomed the Centre’s emphasis on producing ethanol from sugarcane, rice, maize and other agricultural produce.
The association alleged that Opposition parties and certain organisations were spreading “misinformation” by claiming that ethanol adversely affects vehicle engines and reduces fuel efficiency.
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