In a fresh move towards cleaner energy, the government has now allowed ethanol blending in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). The step is aimed at promoting Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and reducing India’s dependence on imported oil.
This comes as part of a broader push to increase the use of biofuels across sectors.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued a notification on April 17, 2026, amending the existing ATF marketing regulations. The updated rules now define aviation turbine fuel as a mix of hydrocarbons that can also include synthesised components, as per Indian standards.
This change aligns India’s fuel regulations with the growing use of alternative and blended aviation fuels across the world.
The decision is part of a wider effort to cut carbon emissions and reduce dependence on imported crude oil. SAF is seen as a cleaner alternative that can lower emissions without major changes to aircraft systems.
India currently imports around 87% of its oil needs, making it highly dependent on global markets. Recent geopolitical tensions, especially in West Asia, have added to concerns around energy security.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said the country must move towards self-reliance in energy. “In the near future, India should aspire to achieve 100% ethanol blending,” he said, highlighting the need to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
The government is also encouraging the use of flex-fuel vehicles and green hydrogen as part of its long-term strategy. Gadkari noted that the upcoming Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) III norms, set to come into force from April 2027, are unlikely to impact electric and flex-fuel vehicles.
Meanwhile, the latest move signals a gradual shift towards cleaner fuels in aviation and beyond. While the transition may take time, it marks an important step in reducing emissions and improving energy security.