SEBI Mandates Verification for Social Media Advertisements by Registered Intermediaries

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced new guidelines requiring SEBI-registered intermediaries to verify their contact details before advertising on social media platforms. This measure aims to curb securities market fraud and enhance transparency.

Rising Online Frauds in the Securities Market

SEBI has observed a surge in fraudulent activities on various social media platforms, including YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, X (formerly Twitter), Telegram, Google Play Store, and Apple Store. Perpetrators often mislead investors by offering deceptive testimonials, online trading courses, seminars, and guarantees of assured or risk-free returns.

With the increasing use of digital platforms, such fraudulent schemes have become widespread, endangering investors. SEBI’s latest directive seeks to counter these fraudulent practices and strengthen market integrity.

Verification Process for Advertisements

To enhance transparency and investor protection, SEBI has collaborated with social media platform providers (SMPPs) to regulate advertisements. According to SEBI’s directive, all registered intermediaries publishing ads on platforms such as Google and Meta must use the mobile number and email ID registered with SEBI’s SI Portal.

The release states, “These SMPPs will thereafter carry out advertiser verification of SEBI Registered Intermediaries after which, intermediaries will be permitted to upload/ publish advertisements on these platforms.”

Intermediaries interested in advertising on these platforms must ensure their contact details are updated on SEBI’s SI Portal by 30 April 2025.

Conclusion

SEBI’s latest mandate seeks to increase accountability and prevent fraudulent financial activities on digital platforms. By enforcing verification requirements, the regulator aims to safeguard investor interests and maintain trust in the securities market.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Axis Mutual Fund Announces Scheme Merger Effective April 30, 2025

Axis Mutual Fund will merge the Axis CRISIL IBX 70:30 CPSE Plus SDL April 2025 Index Fund with the Axis CRISIL IBX SDL May 2027 Index Fund. The merger will take effect on April 30, 2025.

Impact of the Merger

After the merger, the Axis CRISIL IBX 70:30 CPSE Plus SDL April 2025 Index Fund will no longer exist. Investors in this scheme will automatically become unitholders in the Axis CRISIL IBX SDL May 2027 Index Fund. The units held in the original fund will be converted into equivalent units of the new fund based on applicable Net Asset Values (NAVs) on the merger date.

About the Two Funds

The Axis CRISIL IBX 70:30 CPSE Plus SDL April 2025 Index Fund currently tracks an index made up of 70% Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) and 30% State Development Loans (SDLs), all maturing around April 2025.

In contrast, the Axis CRISIL IBX SDL May 2027 Index Fund tracks an index focused entirely on SDLs with a maturity date around May 2027. This fund has a longer duration and excludes CPSEs from its portfolio.

Exit Window for Investors

Investors who do not wish to continue in the merged scheme can redeem or switch their units without incurring any exit load. This exit window will be available from March 28, 2025, to April 29, 2025.

Reason for Merger

According to the official communication, the merger is part of a rationalisation exercise to simplify the fund offerings and align with investment objectives. The new scheme will continue to follow a passively managed investment strategy, tracking the CRISIL IBX SDL Index – May 2027.

Conclusion

The merger will be executed on April 30, 2025, and all investors in the April 2025 fund will be transitioned to the May 2027 fund unless they opt out during the exit window.

Ensure steady returns with systematic withdrawals! Estimate your withdrawals with our SWP Calculator and manage your finances seamlessly.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

The Powerplay Effect: Why Early Investments Set the Foundation for Long-Term Success

The roar of the crowd as the first ball of the innings is bowled – the powerplay sets the stage for an explosive innings in every T20 match, isn’t that right?

You could say that the magic is in cricket’s opening overs — a time when bold strokes and smart strategies can change the entire game, much like the early moves in your investment journey.

In those decisive moments, a well-timed decision can lay the foundation for long-term success. It is the time when small opportunities if used right, will translate into masterful innings that pay off through the entire match.

Early Moves Set the Tempo

Much like a captain’s opening gambit in a high-stakes match, the early stages of your investment journey are all about setting a powerful tempo.

In cricket, the opening batsmen face the field with a mix of aggression and caution. They must read the bowlers and the pitch to score those crucial runs that set the tone of the innings.

Similarly, the early investments you choose have the potential to build momentum, providing you with the platform to capitalize on future opportunities.

This phase is not just about taking risks—it’s about laying down a strategic plan that harnesses the energy of the moment and translates it into long-term financial growth.

Opening Overs: Early Action is Important

The opening overs of a cricket match are the first window of opportunity. Bowlers are adjusting, and the field is often laid tight to contain aggressive batsmen. This period of vulnerability is precisely when smart, proactive moves can yield significant rewards.

When you make timely, calculated investments in the early phase, you set up a strong base for the compounding effect over time.

Just as a fearless batsman seizes the moment to exploit fielding restrictions, an investor can capitalize on market opportunities that arise from a well-planned early entry strategy.

It is simple: act early, play smart, and watch your financial innings unfold with sustained power.

Lessons From Cricket’s Finest: Strategy and Tactics

Cricket legends have always demonstrated that the powerplay is where champions are made. They mix calculated risks with innovative strategies, understanding that a single over can swing the match in their favour.

Consider a batsman who adjusts his stance to tackle varying deliveries — this adaptability and foresight are key to exploiting the field’s weaknesses.

In the same way, early investments require a blend of bold moves and meticulous planning. By studying the tactics of cricket’s finest, you can learn to recognize market patterns and adapt your strategies on the fly.

The lesson here is clear: strategic early moves, supported by careful analysis, pave the way for long-term success.

Equipping Your Arsenal: The Right Investment Tools

To make those early, impactful moves, you need the right tools at your disposal. A blockbuster innings will need batsmen who know how to handle the powerplay overs – much like Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) which have historically weathered the test of time.

Powerplay overs are the time when you need to act fast and make the right calls. By adding ETF SIPs to your portfolio early on, you will get a balanced exposure to equities, thus priming your corpus for wins that will last with the power of compounding.

Didn’t we say act fast? With One-Click SIPs on the Angel One App, you can now set up recurring investments quickly – helping you set the foundation for repeatable success with a single tap.

Build Long-Term Momentum: From Powerplay to Victory

Once the early overs have been played to perfection, the game enters a phase where momentum becomes the deciding factor. In cricket, a strong start sets the stage for building partnerships and steadily accumulating runs, turning the initial burst of energy into a sustainable campaign.

Similarly, the compound effect of early investments grows over time, multiplying your returns and building a resilient financial portfolio. Consistency in reinvesting and staying informed about market dynamics ensures that your initial bold moves transform into enduring success.

It’s about nurturing the seed you planted during the powerplay and watching it flourish throughout the innings of your financial journey.

Risk, Reward, and the Final Over

Every game of cricket comes with its fair share of risks, and the same holds true for investing. The key to success lies in balancing aggressive tactics with prudent risk management.

Just as a batsman knows when to go for a big hit and when to defend his wicket, an investor must gauge when to take calculated risks and when to secure gains. The final overs in a cricket match are where strategies are put to the test—each ball demands precision and calm under pressure.

In the realm of investments, this translates into periodically reassessing your portfolio, adjusting strategies to suit market conditions, and ensuring that every decision is made with a clear understanding of the risk-reward balance.

Summing Up: The Powerplay Effect in Action

As the match nears its conclusion, the cumulative impact of every early decision becomes apparent. The powerplay, with all its energy and strategic brilliance, serves as a powerful metaphor for the investment journey.

By seizing the moment, taking bold yet informed steps early on, and continually refining your strategy, you can set a foundation that withstands the test of time.

Your financial innings, much like a well-played cricket match, is built on a series of decisive moments that, when pieced together, tell the story of triumph.

So, as you step up to the crease in your investment career, remember that the powerplay isn’t just a phase — its impact will last. Set the right foundation, and you will reap its rewards throughout your match.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Reliance Buys 74% Stake in Nauyaan Shipyard for Strategic Expansion

On March 21, 2025, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), through its step-down wholly-owned subsidiary Nauyaan Tradings Private Limited (NTPL), completed the acquisition of a 74% equity stake in Nauyaan Shipyard Private Limited (NSPL). The stake was purchased from Welspun Corp Limited for a total consideration of ₹382.73 crore. With this transaction, NSPL has become a step-down subsidiary of RIL.

Prior to the acquisition, NTPL had extended an unsecured loan of ₹93.66 crore to NSPL on an arm’s-length basis. Reliance has also stated that applications are being submitted to relevant authorities to obtain necessary approvals under NSPL’s existing agreements.

Stock Movement

As of 12:57 PM on March 24, Reliance Industries Ltd Shares were trading at ₹1,296.35, up ₹20.00 or 1.57% for the day, though the stock has declined 12.96% over the past 6 months and 10.07% over the past year.

Q3 FY25 Financials

For the quarter ended December 2024 (Q3 FY25), Reliance Industries reported a consolidated net profit of ₹18,540 crore, compared to ₹17,265 crore in Q3 FY24. Sequentially, profit increased from ₹16,563 crore in the July–September quarter.

Revenue for the quarter rose 7.7% year-on-year to ₹2.67 lakh crore. EBITDA for the quarter stood at ₹48,003 crore, a 7.8% increase from the previous year. The company’s total debt rose slightly to ₹3.5 lakh crore as of December 31, 2024, compared to ₹3.36 lakh crore in September and ₹3.11 lakh crore a year ago.

O2C, Retail, and Telecom Segments

Revenue from the oil-to-chemicals (O2C) business was ₹1.49 lakh crore, with an EBITDA of ₹14,402 crore. Retail and telecom segments also contributed to overall growth, supported by higher tariffs and increased customer activity.

Conclusion 

Separately, RIL has partnered with DP World to introduce a logistics solution that shifts container transport from road to rail. The route connects RIL’s Jamnagar plant to Mundra Port via an inland container depot in Ahmedabad.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

GAIL India Share Price Jumps as PNGRB Proposes Tariff Reforms

On March 24, 2025, Indian equity benchmark indices continued their upward momentum. The Nifty 50 traded above the 23,600 mark, while the Sensex surged over 1%, rising by 830 points by mid-morning.

Among sectoral performers, the BSE Oil & Gas index stood out, gaining over 1.5% as of 11:40 AM. Notably, all constituents were trading in the green, with GAIL India emerging as the top performer.

GAIL India Share Price Jumps Nearly 4%

Shares of GAIL India Ltd were buzzing on the bourses, rising nearly 4% as of 11:41 AM. The stock’s surge is being attributed to fresh regulatory developments from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB), which could impact the company’s core transmission business.

PNGRB Seeks Comments on Gas Tariff Reforms

The PNGRB has invited public comments on proposed amendments to the Natural Gas Pipeline Tariff Regulations, 2008. The board has already received suggestions from the industry and is now seeking wider feedback.

These proposed changes aim to introduce greater flexibility in tariff determination, specifically through updated cost pass-through mechanisms and volume-based pricing assumptions.

The public consultation is open until April 11, 2025, and a final decision is anticipated by June 2025, according to the official report.

Key Proposed Amendments: What’s Changing?

As per the report, the amendments propose a shift to tariff computation based on contracted prices of either domestic gas or LNG, offering a potentially more transparent and responsive model.

Another key proposal involves reducing the zonal tariff structure from three zones to two, which could simplify operations and favour large-scale players like GAIL.

Potential Impact on GAIL 

According to the report, if the proposed framework is approved, Zone 1 tariffs could increase by 20-30%. This move may directly benefit gas transmission companies by boosting revenue in the early-stage zones of pipeline networks.

Conclusion

While these changes are still under consultation, the market has already responded with enthusiasm, reflecting positive investor sentiment towards companies likely to benefit.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Biocon Pharma Gets USFDA Approval for Blood Pressure Injection

Biocon Ltd. announced on March 24, 2025, that its subsidiary, Biocon Pharma, received approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for its ANDA (Abbreviated New Drug Application) of Norepinephrine Bitartrate Injection USP. The injection is used to raise blood pressure in adult patients experiencing acute hypotension. The approved product is a 4 mg/4 mL (1 mg/mL) single-dose vial.

As of 12:41 PM on March 24, Biocon Ltd Shares were trading at ₹349.50, up 1.57% for the day, despite being down 7.01% over the past 6 months and up 35.62% over the past year.

Product to Be Commercialised in the US

With the approval in place, Biocon Pharma can now commercialise the product in the United States. Norepinephrine is a vasopressor commonly used in critical care and emergency settings. This addition strengthens the company’s portfolio of complex injectable products targeting hospitals and healthcare providers.

Other Recent USFDA Approvals

Earlier this month, on March 4, Biocon received two final approvals from the USFDA. These included Lenalidomide Capsules in strengths of 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, 20 mg, and 25 mg, and Dasatinib Tablets in strengths of 20 mg, 50 mg, 70 mg, 80 mg, 100 mg, and 140 mg.

Lenalidomide is used to treat conditions such as multiple myeloma, mantle cell lymphoma, and myelodysplastic syndromes. Dasatinib is prescribed for Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukaemia (Ph+CML) in both adults and children aged one year and above.

Tentative Approval for Rivaroxaban

Biocon has also received tentative approval for its ANDA for Rivaroxaban Tablets USP. The drug will be available in 2.5 mg, 10 mg, 15 mg, and 20 mg strengths. Rivaroxaban is an anticoagulant used to treat and prevent conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and stroke in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion 

The approval allows Biocon Pharma to launch the product in the US market. Further regulatory clearances are pending for other drugs in its pipeline.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Tata AIA Launches Two New Consumption Based Funds

Tata AIA Life Insurance has announced the launch of two new fund offerings—Tata AIA Life Tax Bonanza Consumption Fund and Tata AIA Life Tax Bonanza Consumption Pension Fund. Both funds are aimed at tapping into the changing consumption patterns in India. The New Fund Offer (NFO) period is from March 24 to March 31, 2025, with each unit priced at ₹10.

Fund Objectives and Structure

The main objective of both funds is to generate long-term capital growth by investing in companies expected to benefit from India’s growing domestic consumption. The funds follow a diversified investment strategy across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap equities.

  • Asset allocation:
    • 60%–100% in equities and equity-related instruments
    • 0%–40% in cash and money market securities
  • Risk profile: Long-term capital appreciation with a structured risk management framework
  • Life cover: Insurance protection is included for investors opting through certain Tata AIA plans

Target Sectors

The funds are to invest in sectors expected to see increased demand due to rising incomes and changing spending patterns. These sectors include:

  • Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG)
  • Retail and E-commerce
  • Automobiles and Premium Goods

Tax Reforms and Spending Power

The launch comes in the context of upcoming changes in the tax regime. From FY26, individuals earning up to ₹12.75 lakh annually under the new tax system will have no tax liability. This is expected to increase disposable income and support consumption growth across various sectors.

Conclusion 

The Consumption Fund can be accessed through Tata AIA investment plans such as Shubh Muhurat and Premier SIP. The Consumption Pension Fund is available exclusively through Tata AIA’s unit-linked pension products.

Both funds are positioned as investment options to align with India’s long-term consumption trends.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India’s Tech Industry to Cross US$ 300 Billion by FY26

India’s journey in the global technology arena is no longer just about being a low-cost outsourcing hub. It has transformed into a leading innovation partner, a strategic enabler of digital transformation, and a significant contributor to the global digital economy. 

Speaking at the Global Confluence 2025, Mr. Rajesh Nambiar, President of NASSCOM, highlighted India’s pivotal role in the global tech ecosystem, backed by robust growth projections and a powerful talent engine.

India’s tech sector is on track to approach ₹26 lakh crore in value by FY26

According to Mr. Nambiar, India’s IT industry is expected to close FY25 at ₹24,43,988 crore (US$ 283 billion), with projections to exceed ₹25,90,800 crore (US$ 300 billion) by FY26. This growth not only signifies India’s expanding global footprint but also reinforces its capacity to deliver cutting-edge technology services and products across industries.

India’s Digital Economy: A Key GDP Driver by 2030

India’s digital economy is projected to contribute more than ₹86,36,000 crore (US$ 1 trillion) to the country’s GDP by 2030. This milestone reflects the cumulative impact of digital adoption across government, enterprises, and consumers, driven by emerging technologies and innovative platforms.

A Talent-Driven Growth Story

India’s tech evolution is heavily backed by its human capital. With a workforce of 5.8 million IT professionals, the country contributes 28% of the global STEM talent pool and 23% of all software engineering professionals worldwide. This demographic edge is positioning India as a global hub for next-gen tech development.

Startups and Deep-Tech Innovation on the Rise

India’s startup ecosystem continues to flourish, with over 34,000 technology startups and 3,600 deep-tech ventures focused on areas such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. This surge in deep-tech reflects the country’s strategic shift towards building intellectual property and solving complex global challenges through innovation.

Global Capability Centres: A Testament to India’s Tech Credibility

The increasing number of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) across India signifies the confidence that multinational corporations have in the country’s tech capabilities. These centres not only provide critical support functions but also serve as innovation hubs for global enterprises.

India’s Investment Magnetism in the Tech Sector

India’s ability to attract sustained foreign investment in its technology sector is another key highlight. This inflow supports infrastructure development, R&D initiatives, and the scaling up of high-potential startups. Mr. Nambiar noted that these developments further strengthen India’s position as a preferred partner in the global technology supply chain.

Conclusion

India’s ascent in the global technology ecosystem is fuelled by a mix of scale, skill, and strategic intent. With a thriving startup ecosystem, a world-class talent pool, and a growing influence in deep-tech innovation, India is no longer just a participant—but a shaper of the future global digital landscape.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

From PMKVY to MUDRA: Government Backs 73,000+ Women Entrepreneurs Across India

In recent years, the Government of India has rolled out a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the economic empowerment of women. From financial assistance to skill-building programmes, these schemes play a vital role in enabling women to participate more actively in entrepreneurship and innovation. According to official data, more than 73,000 startups—nearly half of those supported under the Startup India Initiative—have at least 1 woman director, indicating a positive trend in women’s leadership across sectors.

Skill Development Programmes – Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana and Mahila Coir Yojana 

Skill development remains a cornerstone of women’s empowerment. Schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) and the Mahila Coir Yojana (MCY) are designed to equip women with industry-relevant skills and training. While PMKVY offers short-term training in various sectors, MCY provides coir industry training specifically for rural women, enabling them to become self-reliant and financially independent.

Financial Assistance and Credit Schemes

To ease access to credit and facilitate entrepreneurship, the government has introduced multiple financial schemes:

  • MUDRA Yojana: Offers collateral-free microfinance loans for small businesses.

  • Stand-Up India: Facilitates loans between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore for women and marginalised communities to start greenfield enterprises.

  • Startup India: Provides mentoring, tax benefits, and funding support to foster a startup ecosystem inclusive of women.

In addition, the Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) and the Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) offer financial backing and employment generation avenues for aspiring women entrepreneurs.

Intellectual Property Benefits

Recognising the need for innovation and intellectual property protection, the government has extended several benefits to women entrepreneurs. Under the Indian Patent Act, women applicants enjoy a reduced patent filing fee and an expedited examination process. As a result, there has been a 905% surge in patent filings by women in the past 5 years, showcasing their growing presence in technology-driven ventures.

Support for the Informal Sector and Street Vendors

The Pradhan Mantri Street Vendors Atmanirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme provides working capital loans to street vendors, including women, helping them restart or expand their micro-businesses post-pandemic. These small-scale initiatives are crucial for many women who form the backbone of the informal economy in India.

Dedicated Schemes from Nationalised Banks

Several public sector banks have also stepped forward with dedicated schemes for women-led businesses:

  • Mahila Udyam Nidhi Yojana: Aids small-scale women entrepreneurs with soft loans for business expansion.

  • Dena Shakti Scheme: Offers concessional interest rates to women in agriculture, retail, and manufacturing.

  • Stree Shakti Package for Women Entrepreneurs: Provides interest rate concessions and collateral-free loans for women with majority ownership in enterprises.

  • Cent Kalyani Scheme: Targets self-employed women and those running MSMEs, offering finance for both working capital and expansion.

A Step Forward in Nation-Building

These multifaceted efforts are part of a broader vision to empower women economically and foster inclusive growth. The schemes not only address the financial needs of women but also promote long-term socio-economic change by encouraging independence and innovation.

The information was shared by Ms. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha, underlining the government’s commitment to promoting gender equality in entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

From skill development to startup incubation and microfinance support, the Indian government has laid a strong foundation for women entrepreneurs to thrive. These initiatives signal a shift towards a more inclusive economic landscape, where women are increasingly seen as key drivers of growth and innovation.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

India’s Ethanol Journey: Policy Push and Measures Beyond the 20% Blending Target

India’s commitment to energy security and sustainable fuel alternatives has placed ethanol blending at the forefront of its biofuel strategy. While the current policy targets 20% ethanol blending in petrol (E20) by FY26, discussions and infrastructure development hint at readiness for even higher blending levels in the future.

Ethanol Blending: A Timeline of Progress

The National Policy on Biofuels – 2018, amended in 2022, brought a significant shift by advancing the target year for 20% ethanol blending from 2030 to the Ethanol Supply Year (ESY) 2025-26.

  • 10% blending was achieved in June 2022, 5 months ahead of schedule for ESY 2021-22.
  • Ethanol blending increased further to:

    • 12.06% in ESY 2022-23
    • 14.60% in ESY 2023-24
    • 17.98% as of February 2025 (ESY 2024-25)

This upward trend showcases the government’s proactive approach, although no official decision has yet been taken to increase the target beyond the 20% mark.

Technical Challenges with E20

As per the Roadmap for Ethanol Blending in India 2020–25 by an inter-ministerial committee, switching to E20 petrol results in a marginal drop in fuel efficiency in vehicles calibrated for E10.

However, this setback can be mitigated by modifications in engine hardware—a necessary step as India looks to scale up blending levels without compromising vehicle performance.

Flexibility in Feedstocks

To meet growing ethanol demands, the National Biofuel Coordination Committee has allowed the use of food grains during surplus phases, alongside traditional sugar-based sources.

Key approved feedstocks include:

  • Maize
  • Sugarcane juice and molasses
  • Broken rice
  • Agricultural residues

This diversification helps ensure both environmental sustainability and economic viability for farmers and ethanol producers.

Government Support for Ethanol Production

The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, launched in 2014, has provided multiple incentives to support the ethanol ecosystem:

  • Subsidised pricing for ethanol procurement
  • 5% GST to reduce production costs
  • Regulatory amendments to facilitate easier inter-state movement of ethanol
  • Introduction of Ethanol Interest Subvention Schemes (EISS) to ease financing
  • Long-Term Offtake Agreements (LTOAs) to provide revenue visibility for producers

These initiatives aim to create a stable and attractive business environment for ethanol manufacturers.

Conclusion

While the current ethanol blending target stands at 20% by FY26, India is steadily building the infrastructure and policy support necessary to exceed this benchmark. From diversified feedstocks to technical adjustments and financial incentives, the nation is laying the groundwork for an ambitious and greener future in energy. Though no official roadmap has been declared for blending beyond 20%, the momentum clearly signals a strong commitment to ethanol as a cornerstone of India’s biofuel strategy.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.