Topic– Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc.
5) Several factors have contributed to the slow progress in India’s biodiesel development programme. Critically examine.(250 words)
Why this question
Biodiesel and ethanol are one the most important economically as well as technologically feasible alternatives to fossil fuel use in automobiles. India has not realized the potential in both these fronts. Here we have to concentrate on biodiesel. And it is important to discuss the reasons behind the slow progress in India’s biodiesel programme.
Directive word
Examine- Here we have to probe deeper into the topic, get into details, and find out the causes or implications if any. Based on our discussion we have to form an opinion on the issue.
Key demand of the question
The question wants us to dig deep into India’s BIOFUEL Programme and discuss what are the factors responsible for the slow progress in achieving the desired objectives of the Biodiesel part of the programme. Then we have to form an opinion on the question accordingly.
Structure of the answer
Introduction– write a few lines about India’s Biofuel policy, 2009 and it’s biodiesel component- its target/ mandate of 20% blending of ethanol and biodiesel etc. mention the failure to achieve the set targets.
Body-
Mention that In India, there is a vast potential for the production of biodiesel from Jatropha and the Indian Beech-Karanj, as they occur in plenty in forests and wastelands.Discuss in points the factors responsible for the slow progress of the biodiesel programme. E.g an acute shortage of Jatropha seeds- due to very poor Jatropha seed yield; limited availability of wasteland and high plantation and maintenance costs rendering biodiesel projects unviable; Trial results with High Yielding Varieties (HYVs) of Jatropha for production of biodiesel have not been satisfactory; thus because of limited availability of biodiesel and the volatile nature of its prices, the speed of blending had suffered a setback; higher gestation period of biodiesel crops (3–5 years for Jatropha) results in a longer payback period and creates additional problems for farmers where state support is not readily available; sub-optimal processing and marketing infrastructure and under-developed distribution channels; several existing biodiesel plants shifted operations to adopt multiple feedstock technology; several existing biodiesel plants shifted operations to adopt multiple feedstock technology etc.
Conclusion– Bring out the importance of the success of biodiesel programme in terms of India’s primary reliance on diesel, for transportation and to achieve energy security and reduce energy imports. Write in few lines the way-forward.
