Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is a globally recognized renewable aviation fuel that can directly replace conventional aviation fuel and bring down current carbon emissions from the global aviation sector. As many countries commit to CORSIA and long-term net-zero targets, SAF demand is set to rise sharply. With its abundant biomass resources, strong refining capabilities, and rapidly expanding aviation market, India is uniquely positioned to emerge as a global leader in SAF production and adoption.

In view of this, MoP&NG constituted a committee under the Chairmanship of Dr SSV Ramakumar, Director (R&D), IOCL to suggest ways to take forward the SAF program in the country to promote the use of clean fuel in aviation. A comprehensive report with recommendations based upon advanced technologies, raw material availability, demand, viability gap funding and a SAF blending roadmap (1-50% progressively), in line with various countries worldwide in the context of India, was submitted in November 2021 and was accepted by the MoPNG and MoCA.