India's ethanol blending programme is entering a stronger and more resilient phase, with a diversified mix of grain- and sugar-based feedstocks improving supply stability and creating a solid foundation for higher ethanol blending in the years ahead, according to the All India Distillers' Association (AIDA).
In a statement, AIDA said the ongoing Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26 reflects the growing maturity of India's biofuel ecosystem. The association noted that the use of multiple feedstocks has made ethanol supplies more stable by reducing dependence on any single agricultural crop and ensuring a balanced mix of raw materials.
"The latest ethanol supply data demonstrates that India's biofuel programme has evolved into a robust and resilient ecosystem driven by diversified feedstocks," AIDA President Vijendra Singh said.
He stated that while maize remains the largest contributor to ethanol production, the increasing use of surplus food grains and sugarcane-based feedstocks has strengthened supply chains and improved India's energy security.
"As the country moves beyond the E20 milestone, policy support for higher ethanol blends, Flex-Fuel Vehicles (FFVs), ethanol-diesel blending and next-generation biofuels will be essential to fully utilise the significant production capacity created by the industry," Singh said.
According to AIDA, cumulative ethanol supplies reached 717 crore litres by June 2026, against contracted volumes of 1,048 crore litres, achieving 68 per cent of the targeted supply during the current ethanol supply year.
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Grain-based ethanol accounted for nearly 67 per cent of the total supply, contributing 480 crore litres, while sugarcane-based feedstocks added 238 crore litres. Maize remained the single largest feedstock with 258 crore litres, followed by surplus grains supplied through the Food Corporation of India, which contributed 177 crore litres.
The association said the balanced contribution from multiple feedstocks has ensured year-round ethanol availability, improved supply resilience and reduced reliance on any single crop, helping advance India's clean energy ambitions and energy security goals.
AIDA added that the country's expanding ethanol production capacity and broader participation from both the grain and sugar sectors are expected to support higher blending targets while generating additional income opportunities for farmers and strengthening rural supply chains.
The industry body also emphasised that continued policy support for higher ethanol blends, flex-fuel mobility and new ethanol applications will be crucial to fully utilise the sector's growing production capacity, reduce crude oil imports and accelerate India's long-term transition towards cleaner sources of energy.
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