He further discussed the importance of leveraging waste-to-energy technologies, especially in the production of bio-CNG from rice straw, which has proven viable across 475 projects, with over 40 already operational in states such as Punjab, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh, and Karnataka.The minister also called for further research into efficient biomass sources and cost-effective transportation of biomass.Addressing the environmental challenge of stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, Gadkari praised Indian Oil’s Panipat plant, which is converting agricultural waste (parali) into biomass.“At present, we are able to process one-fifth of the parali, but with proper planning, we can significantly reduce the seasonal air pollution caused by stubble burning,” he said.He stressed the urgency of reducing India’s annual fossil fuel import worth Rs 22 lakh crore, particularly amidst global geopolitical uncertainties. “Biofuel is key to India’s energy self-reliance, boosting the agricultural economy, and ensuring prosperity for our farmers,” he said.
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