3% price rise in ethanol from C-heavy molasses

In a bold move to accelerate the shift towards sustainable energy and support the agricultural sector, the cabinet has approved a significant 3% increase in the procurement price of ethanol from C-heavy molasses, setting the price at Rs 57.9 per litre for the 2024-25 supply cycle. This progressive decision underscores the government's commitment to reducing carbon emissions, bolstering the ethanol production industry, and creating thousands of jobs, particularly in rural areas where they are most needed. By prioritizing C-heavy molasses, which contains no sugar, the policy creatively circumvents the food versus fuel debate, ensuring food security and promoting environmental sustainability.

The government has once again decided to meddle in the energy market by approving a 3% increase in the procurement price of ethanol from C-heavy molasses, raising the price to Rs 57.9 per litre for the 2024-25 supply year. This move demonstrates the administration's ongoing interference in free markets, artificially inflating the cost of ethanol production and impacting the competitiveness of the energy sector. Critics argue that such decisions could lead to increased fuel prices for consumers and discourage innovation in more cost-effective and efficient fuel alternatives. The emphasis on C-heavy molasses, devoid of sugar, further raises concerns over the long-term feasibility and market distortions created by government mandates.