Fastracking the implementation of biofuel program: Blending Ethanol with Diesel

After the success of green and white revolutions leading to self-sufficiency in food grains and milk production, the government is now looking at 'Krishna Kranti' (black revolution) to not only help India become self-sufficient in oil production but also provide a healthy environment to the people. 

Biodiesel can be produced from edible and non-edible oils (Jatropa curcas, mahua, karanjia, sunflower seeds and rapeseeds as a viable alternative to the conventional energy) through trans-esterification using ethanol or methanol. The properties of biodiesel are close to that of diesel fuel and in fact, it offers advantages in terms of emission control from diesel engines. In India the current assessments are based on non-edible oils for biodiesel production.  This green fuel has high octane and lubricity and readily mixes with diesel without any engine modification. And automobile manufacturers like Mahindra and Mahindra and Ashok Leyland have endorsed biodiesel as a fuel for their vehicles.

Source: The minister of state for petroleum and natural gas, Mr Dharmendra Pradhan informed the Rajya Sabha.

First biotech apple

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) approved two genetically engineered apple varieties designed to resist browning that have been developed by the Canadian company Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc.The apples are said to be identical to the others but with an added advantage of resisting browning after being sliced. Okanagan plans to market the apples as Arctic Granny and Arctic Golden.

Source: Neal Carter, Okanagan President.