Powering Up: India Mandates Bio-Gas Blending and EV Expansion

In the Union Budget 2026, India announced a phased plan to blend compressed bio-gas (CBG) into both compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped natural gas (PNG) used in transportation, marking a significant step in the country’s clean-fuel transition.

Following the rollout of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20) from April 2025, this initiative aims to reduce fossil fuel dependence, lower carbon emissions, and promote domestic bio-energy production. It is also expected to benefit farmers by utilising agricultural waste and help reduce natural gas import bills.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the government’s focus on strengthening India’s electric mobility ecosystem, including measures to boost EV manufacturing, expand charging infrastructure, and support electric buses in public transport. A new security framework will encourage adoption of electric buses by state and city transport corporations.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.