Nagpur: Union Minister for Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has claimed that the Centre's proposed introduction of ethanol-based cooking stoves could provide relief to households affected by rising LPG prices, while also reducing India's dependence on imported cooking fuel.
Speaking at a public programme in Nagpur, Gadkari said the government is preparing to promote ethanol-based cooking technology as a lower-cost and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional LPG cylinders. The initiative is being projected as part of a broader effort to strengthen India's energy security and reduce the impact of global fuel price fluctuations on consumers.
Ethanol is a biofuel produced from sugarcane, maize and agricultural residues. Supporters of the initiative argue that its use in cooking stoves could help lower harmful emissions compared to traditional fuels while creating a cleaner energy option for households.
The proposal is also expected to benefit the agricultural sector. Increased ethanol production could create additional demand for sugarcane, maize and other agricultural feedstocks, potentially generating higher incomes for farmers and encouraging the productive use of crop residues.
India has significantly expanded its ethanol programme over the past decade. Ethanol blending in petrol has risen from around 1.5 per cent in 2014 to nearly 20 per cent by 2025, a development that the government views as a major success in reducing fossil fuel dependence.
The push for ethanol-based cooking comes amid continued uncertainty in global energy markets. According to Gadkari, disruptions in crude oil supply and pricing, including those linked to the Iran conflict, have contributed to higher fuel costs. The government believes wider adoption of ethanol could help cushion consumers from such external pressures while promoting domestic energy alternatives.