Sustainable Aviation Fuel: India can achieve the capacity to produce 8 million to 10 million tonnes of sustainable aviation fuel ( SAF ) by 2040, but for this, it will need an investment of $70-85 billion. This estimate has been made in a report. A report released by consulting firm Deloitte India on Tuesday said that the production of 8 million to 10 million tonnes of SAF will exceed the country's estimated domestic demand. In line with the mandate of blending 15 percent SAF in aviation fuel in the year 2040, 4.5 million tonnes will be required.

According to the report, if this happens, India can also establish itself as a major SAF exporter serving global markets. However, the report says that an investment of Rs 6-7 lakh crore (70-85 billion dollars) will be required to realize the estimated production capacity of SAF. This will accelerate carbon reduction efforts in the aviation sector and reduce carbon emissions by 20-25 million tonnes annually.

India is one of the world's fastest-growing aviation markets and efforts are underway to reduce carbon emissions in the sector. According to the report, the estimated capital investment of Rs 6-7 lakh crore will also help create 11-14 lakh jobs across the value chain and reduce the crude oil import bill by $5-7 billion annually.

Moreover, the use of agricultural residues as raw material in SAF production can increase farmers' income by 10-15 percent. It can also be a sustainable alternative to the current practice of burning stubble. Prashant Nutula, partner at Deloitte India, said that the drive to produce sustainable aviation fuel is fast becoming a reality globally and in India. With a 2-3 percent share in the global aviation fuel market, India is in a favorable position in the SAF and other aviation fuel markets.