New Delhi, May 3 (KNN) Union Minister for Consumer Affairs Piyush Goyal on Tuesday said that the growth of ethanol sector has been tremendous and it is an example for the world.

Addressing the seminar on ‘National Seminar on Maize to Ethanol’ organized by Department of Food and Public Distribution in New Delhi,Goyal said, “In last 9 years, sugar sector has been self-sufficient with more than 99.9 per cent payment to farmers for previous season.”

“Now, ethanol will support maize farmers in increasing their income and bringing growth with stability on the lines of sugarcane farmers,” he said.

Goyal further added that Investment of thousands of crores have helped create thousands of jobs in rural sector which has generated multiplier effect on Indian economy. 

“Timely planning, industry friendly policies and transparent approach of the Government of India with collaboration of industry has made these achievements a reality,” he said. 

Manoj Ahuja, Secretary, Agriculture also expressed the need to have more targeted and region specific approach in promoting cultivation of maize in the country.

The seminar focused on bringing experts of various varied technological fields under one platform with the aim of looking at ways on usage of technology as a force multiplier to understand the concerns and challenges in promoting maize cultivation.

The seminar was attended by Secretary DFPD, Sanjeev Chopra along with Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, and Secretary, Pankaj Jain,experts from various Government Departments, Institutes, Oil Marketing Companies and Industry. Distinguished experts from ethanol industry, sugar sector, Animal Feed Marketing Association and seed/equipment suppliers.  (KNN Bureau)