Discuss the potential effects of ethanol blending on food security in India. How might increased maize production impact the agricultural landscape and food prices?

Question

PocketIAS · Accepted Answer

Context

India’s Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme, targeting 20% blending by 2025–26, aims to enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and support farm incomes. However, its implications for food security require careful assessment.

Potential effects on food security

Diversion of food crops: Greater use of maize, rice, and sugarcane for ethanol may reduce availability for food and feed, particularly in years of poor harvests.
Pressure on public stocks: Procurement of surplus rice for ethanol could strain FCI stocks, affecting the Public Distribution System and price stability.
Price volatility: Increased demand for ethanol feedstock may push up prices of cereals, impacting food inflation and access for vulnerable households.
Resource stress: Expansion of water-intensive crops like sugarcane for ethanol can exacerbate groundwater depletion, indirectly affecting food crop sustainability.

Impact of increased maize production

Cropping pattern shift: Higher ethanol demand can incentivise farmers to shift from pulses and oilseeds to maize, affecting dietary diversity and nutritional security.
Positive income effects: Maize offers relatively stable returns and is less water-intensive than sugarcane, potentially improving farmer incomes and climate resilience.
Feed and poultry sector impact: Maize is a key input for poultry and livestock; rising prices can increase protein food costs.
Regional concentration: Expansion may be limited to suitable agro-climatic zones, reinforcing regional imbalances.

Way forward

Prioritise use of surplus and damaged grains and second-generation biofuels.
Promote productivity-led maize expansion rather than area diversion.
Maintain buffer stock norms and flexible ethanol procurement policies.
Encourage crop diversification and water-efficient practices.

Balancing energy goals with food security is essential for sustainable ethanol policy.

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