NEW DELHI, APRIL 22: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has officially amended the rules governing the marketing of jet fuel, allowing for the integration of ethanol and synthetic hydrocarbons. This regulatory change, issued under the Essential Commodities Act, aims to systematically reduce India’s massive oil import bill. By redefining Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) to include blends with man-made hydrocarbons, the government has provided the legal basis for the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Under the updated norms, jet fuel can now consist of traditional crude-derived hydrocarbons or blends that meet the IS 17081 quality standards. Analysts noted that SAF is typically produced from renewable sources such as municipal solid waste, wood residues, and captured carbon dioxide. Officials stated that while the new rules facilitate the use of these fuels, the government has not yet set a mandatory blending requirement for domestic carriers.
The ministry affirmed that this policy shift is essential for meeting the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) mandates. India has declared a target of 1 percent SAF blending for international operations starting in 2027, with the goal of reaching 5 percent by the end of the decade. Leaders maintained that these changes are vital for meeting climate goals and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the Indian aviation industry.
Furthermore, the new gazette notification ensures that enforcement and marketing protocols are consistent with current criminal and administrative procedures. Experts declared that the move encourages domestic production of synthetic fuels by providing a clear regulatory pathway for their sale and use. The government asserted that this transformation will not only benefit the environment but also provide a new market for agricultural and wood residues, supporting the broader goal of a self-reliant energy economy.
