Maharashtra to set up research lab for bamboo-based ethanol production
Maharashtra will establish a state-funded research laboratory to advance bamboo-based ethanol production, supporting technology development and commercialisation. The initiative aims to promote bamboo as a sustainable ethanol feedstock, encourage cultivation, and strengthen the state’s leadership in renewable energy and ethanol production.
The Maharashtra government will establish a dedicated research laboratory to promote ethanol production from bamboo, with the required funding to be provided by the state, Forest Minister Ganesh Naik announced in the Legislative Assembly.
The announcement came during the monsoon session while responding to a calling attention motion raised by MLA Mahesh Shinde.
Shinde told the House that bamboo contains carbon that can be used to produce ethanol through the fermentation process. He asked whether the Forest Department was considering setting up a specialised research institution or a modern laboratory to support research in bamboo-based ethanol production and whether the government would allocate funds for the project.
Responding to the proposal, Naik said the state would establish a laboratory to support research, technology development and commercial production of ethanol from bamboo. He added that the government would provide the necessary financial support for the project.
Welcoming the decision, Shinde said bamboo has the potential to emerge as a sustainable alternative feedstock for ethanol alongside conventional sugarcane-based production. He said setting up a dedicated research facility would strengthen Maharashtra’s position in the ethanol sector and help the state remain at the forefront of the industry.
Shinde also noted that he has previously raised several issues related to alternative energy sources in the Assembly. He said the government’s decision to support research into bamboo-based ethanol production could encourage bamboo cultivation across the state while promoting the development of alternative renewable energy sources.
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Source : ChiniMandi
