Union Minister Nitin Gadkari introduced a new ethanol-based cooking stove technology in Nagpur, offering cheaper cooking flames compared to LPG cylinders. By blending 7% ethanol with water, the stove produces affordable flames suitable for cooking, emphasizing its indigenous nature. Gadkari’s advocacy for ethanol as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels is reflected in this initiative, aligning with his efforts to reduce India’s reliance on imported crude oil and promote clean energy.
The government’s push for ethanol blending in petrol, spearheaded by Gadkari, has seen significant growth from 1.53% in 2014 to a target of 20% by 2025. This move aims to enhance energy security in a country that imports a substantial portion of its crude oil. Gadkari’s vision extends to the domestic cooking sector with the proposed ethanol-water stove technology, potentially offering a cost-effective and locally developed option for households currently using LPG cylinders.
In addition to the energy-focused initiative, Gadkari announced a Rs 40-crore project to foster scientific curiosity and innovation among youth. This project underscores the minister’s commitment to nurturing scientific temperament among children, aligning with his belief in the importance of technological advancements and scientific education for the country’s future.
