Date:30/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/12/30/stories/2006123003250700.htm

Back Delhi to host biodiesel meet next week

Our Bureau

Mumbai , Dec. 29

New Delhi will host the first major national convention and exhibition on biofuels, more specifically biodiesel, called Bio-Energy Tech 2007 during January 5 and 6, event organisers, Bio Diesel Association of India (BDAI), said. The association's membership includes petroleum majors as also bio-diesel producers.

The event is expected to cover a wide range of topics of interest to stakeholders. Sources of supply including growth, harvest and collection of biomass, issues of sustainability, processing technologies and transportation as also benefits to the community would be part of the discussions.

Sharing expertise

Experts from India and abroad representing energy majors, machinery manufacturers and technology service providers will share their expertise.

Senior policymakers including Mr Sharad Pawar, Union Minister for Agriculture and Food, are expected to share their thoughts on the subject of biofuels.

The Government has been emphasising the critical importance of ensuring energy security to fuel economic growth. Biofuels would deliver multiple benefits to the economy in terms of reduction in dependence on fossil fuel, support to agriculture and environment protection, according to Mr Sandeep Chaturvedi, President of BDAI.