The Grain Ethanol Manufacturers Association (GEMA) has welcomed a draft notification issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) on April 30, 2026, proposing amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, to include higher ethanol blends — E85 and E100 — along with B100 biodiesel, within India's vehicle emission norms and certification framework.

The proposed amendments follow India's achievement of 20 per cent ethanol blending (E20) and would formally recognise higher ethanol fuels within the regulatory and vehicle certification structure.

Commenting on the development, Dr. C.K. Jain, President, GEMA, said, "This draft notification marks a progressive and forward-looking step for India's biofuel ecosystem. The inclusion of E85 and E100 in emission norms is a strong policy signal that the country is ready to move beyond E20 and embrace higher ethanol blends."

He further noted that the move is expected to create substantial opportunities for the grain-based ethanol industry by enabling capacity expansion, attracting fresh investments, and strengthening the overall value chain. "It reinforces confidence among stakeholders from farmers to fuel producers and automobile manufacturers and will help accelerate India's efforts towards energy security and decarbonisation," he added.

GEMA said higher ethanol blends would increase demand for surplus agricultural produce, supporting farm incomes and contributing to agri-economy resilience. The association also said it intends to participate in the government's consultation process on the draft notification.