Which crop became India’s largest feedstock for ethanol production in 2025–26 (H1)?

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The correct answer is Option D: Maize. Maize became India’s single-largest ethanol feedstock as of 12 May 2026, with 182 crore litres produced in ESY 2025–26 (H1). India’s total ethanol supply crossed 515 crore litres, achieving about 49% of the 1,059 crore litre target. Grain-based distilleries contributed around 333 crore litres, with maize as the top grain feedstock. Ethanol in India is produced from sugarcane-based and grain-based sources, with sugarcane traditionally dominant. Maize belongs to the Poaceae family and is used for food, feed, starch, and industrial alcohol production. Maize has a shorter growth cycle and lower irrigation requirement than sugarcane, supporting water-efficient ethanol production. India’s ethanol blending programme targets 20% blending with petrol (E20), requiring diversified feedstock sources. Uttar Pradesh aims to expand maize cultivation to 11.3 lakh hectares in 2026–27 to support ethanol demand. Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) in India runs from November to October, as per official classification. In the USA, corn is the main ethanol feedstock, with RFS set at 15 billion gallons and 45Z tax credits supporting ethanol and SAF production.

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Sugarcane

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Rice

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Wheat

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Barley

Which crop became India’s largest feedstock for ethanol production in 2025–26 (H1)?

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Which crop became India’s largest feedstock for ethanol production in 2025–26 (H1)?

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