Maize Surpasses Sugarcane as Primary Feedstock in India's Ethanol Programme
During the first half of the Ethanol Supply Year 2025-26, maize contributed 182 crore litres out of the total 515 crore litres supplied.
The move towards maize is driven by its year-round availability and its significantly lower water footprint compared to the water-intensive sugarcane crop.
India has achieved nearly 49% of its annual ethanol supply target for the first half of the year, supporting the goal of 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20).
The All-India Distillers Association notes that maize is more sustainable and scalable for long-term expansion into higher blending targets.
Key Facts / Static GK
E20 Goal: Achieving 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025-26.
Top maize producing states: Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar.
Practice Quiz — 15 May 2026
Q1. Regarding the RBI's recent relaxation of CET1 capital norms, consider the following statements: I. Banks can include quarterly profits in CET1 capital without any audit requirements. II. The relaxation applies to Payments Banks and Small Finance Banks. III. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) are included in this new framework.
Q2. What is the targeted volume of coal gasification set by the Government of India to be achieved by the year 2030?
Q3. What is the primary reason for the removal of the CSR obligation for companies participating in the revamped PM Internship Scheme 2026?
Q4. Which of the following conditions allows for an exemption from the sugar export ban effective May 2026? I. Shipments already handed over to customs before the notification. II. Exports of refined sugar to any neighboring country. III. Exports where loading began before 13 May 2026.
Q5. India recently tested the MIRV-enabled Agni missile. Which of the following countries is NOT part of the elite group that already possesses MIRV technology?
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