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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 19/12/2024

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (19-12-2024).

Q. Discuss the potential of biofuel production from agricultural residues in Assam as a tool for achieving environmental sustainability and rural economic empowerment. Highlight the challenges and suggest a way forward.”

Model Answer:

Introduction: Biofuel production from agricultural residues like paddy straw and sugarcane bagasse presents an innovative solution for achieving sustainability and empowering rural economies. Assam, leveraging its 4 million tonnes of paddy straw annually, aims to integrate its agricultural sector into India’s National Bio-Energy Mission, contributing to the 20% ethanol blending target by 2030.

Body:

Significance of Biofuel Production in Assam:

Environmental Benefits:
- Mitigates air pollution by reducing stubble burning.
- Lowers greenhouse gas emissions, supporting India’s net-zero emissions target by 2070.
- Promotes a circular economy through effective waste management.
Economic Empowerment:
- Provides farmers with alternative income sources through the sale of residues.
- Creates employment in biofuel production facilities and supply chains.
- Reduces dependency on crude oil imports, enhancing national energy security.
Technological Advancement:
- Encourages the development of second-generation (2G) biofuel plants, such as those planned in Sivasagar and Dibrugarh.
Contribution to National Goals:
- Supports the Ethanol Blending Program (EBP) and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action).

Challenges in Biofuel Production:

Infrastructure Deficit:
- High initial investment required for setting up bio-refineries and supply chains.
- Limited transportation networks hinder efficient residue collection.
Technological Barriers:
- Lack of cost-effective and scalable 2G biofuel technologies in India.
Farmer Awareness:
- Insufficient knowledge among farmers about the economic and environmental benefits of selling agricultural residues.
Policy and Implementation Gaps:
- Delays in financial and logistical support for biofuel projects under initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana.

Way Forward:

Incentivizing Farmers:
- Provide subsidies for residue collection and ensure fair pricing mechanisms for agricultural waste.
Strengthening Infrastructure:
- Develop rural processing units and improve transportation facilities.
Enhancing Technology:
- Invest in R&D for scalable and cost-efficient biofuel production methods.
Building Partnerships:
- Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) to attract investments and enhance operational efficiency.
Community Engagement:
- Conduct awareness campaigns to educate farmers and stakeholders on the benefits of biofuel initiatives.

Conclusion: Biofuel production from agricultural residues offers Assam a sustainable pathway to address environmental challenges while empowering rural economies. By addressing logistical, technological, and policy-related hurdles, Assam can emerge as a leader in India’s renewable energy sector, driving the country toward a greener and more self-reliant future.

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