Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Indian government has announced its intention to use ethanol for producing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), a significant step towards decarbonizing the aviation sector.
Key points
- Ethanol is being explored as a feedstock for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
- Aviation is difficult to decarbonize due to current limitations of batteries and hydrogen at commercial scale.
- The process to convert ethanol into jet fuel is known as Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ), involving dehydration, hydrocarbon chain lengthening, and hydrogenation.
- This initiative aligns with India's goal of becoming self-reliant in energy needs and meeting international emissions frameworks.
Background & context
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of the aviation industry. Ethanol, a biofuel, can be produced from various sources and is being investigated as a viable component for SAF production.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The Alcohol-to-Jet (ATJ) process converts ethanol into a usable form for jet engines.
✎ Mains relevance
GS III: Science and Technology, Economy (Energy Security), Environment.
Why in news?
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has emphasized India's pursuit of achieving 100% ethanol blending in fuel to enhance energy self-reliance.
Key points
- The goal is to achieve 100% ethanol blending in petrol.
- Pure ethanol has the same chemical formula regardless of its source.
- One litre of petrol provides more energy (45-55% more) than one litre of ethanol.
- This push is part of India's strategy for energy self-sufficiency.
Background & context
Ethanol blending in petrol has been a part of India's energy policy for years, aiming to reduce crude oil imports and promote the use of biofuels. Currently, India aims for E20 (20% ethanol blending).
★ Prelims fact capsule
Ethanol is less energy-dense than petrol; 1 litre of petrol provides 45-55% more energy than 1 litre of ethanol.
✎ Mains relevance
GS III: Economy (Energy Security), Environment.
Why in news?
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has taken disciplinary action by suspending an Officer-in-Charge (OC) for alleged bias during the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections, highlighting the ECI's efforts to ensure free and fair polls.
Key points
- The ECI ordered the suspension of Sandip Sarkar, OC of Hingalganj Police Station, for alleged partisan behavior and nexus with local elements.
- The ECI issued fresh post-poll guidelines for the West Bengal elections, focusing on strict protocols for surveillance camera data.
- SD cards from polling booth cameras cannot be removed immediately after voting; cameras remain under sector officer supervision.
- Opposition parties have submitted a notice for the removal of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, citing reasons for a no-confidence motion.
Background & context
Elections in West Bengal have often been politically charged, with the ECI tasked with ensuring a level playing field and maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. The ECI has the power to take suo motu action against officials or processes that could compromise fair elections.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The ECI can suspend polling officials and issue new guidelines to ensure election fairness.
✎ Mains relevance
GS II: Polity and Governance (Elections, Role of ECI).