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This development is expected to create significant job opportunities and foster growth in the biofuel industry within India
India has formalized its commitment to the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) by signing the Host Country Agreement (HCA), paving the way for the establishment of the GBA Secretariat in the country. The agreement was signed by Shri Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations), Ministry of External Affairs, and Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, who is also the Interim Director General of GBA.
The Union Cabinet approved the signing and ratification of the HCA on October 3, 2024, facilitating the setup of the Secretariat in India. This Secretariat, comprising both Indian and international staff, will enable GBA to achieve its objectives while operating in accordance with Indian laws, rules, and regulations. The HCA also grants GBA necessary legal status, including privileges and immunities under the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act, 1947, ensuring the effective discharge of its functions.
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The establishment of the GBA Secretariat in India presents numerous opportunities for local experts and businesses
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Indian professionals in the biofuel sector will have a global platform to showcase their expertise, aligning with the country’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) mission
Launched during India’s G20 Presidency on September 9, 2023, by the Hon’ble Prime Minister along with leaders from eight other countries—Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Italy, Mauritius, Singapore, UAE, and the USA—the GBA is a unique multistakeholder initiative aimed at promoting biofuel production and use globally. Since its inception, GBA has expanded rapidly, with 27 member countries and 12 international organizations now on board.
The GBA’s mandate includes addressing challenges related to feedstock availability, developing policy frameworks, streamlining biomass supply chains, and encouraging investment in biofuels. It also aims to define common technical standards, ensure quality standardization, and create uniform certification processes to further the global adoption of biofuels. In addition, the GBA will promote clean cooking initiatives, contributing to environmental sustainability.
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