India is moving forward with efforts to cut carbon emissions in aviation by introducing Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blending targets—starting with 1% by 2027 and increasing to 2% by 2028. Supporting this national initiative, Praj Industries, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and the Indian Sugar & Bio-energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA) have formalized a partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Their joint goal: to support the production and certification of SAF made from Indian sugarcane using the Ethanol-to-Jet (ETJ) route.
The agreement aims to perform a full Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of SAF produced from local feedstocks. This study is essential to evaluate both the environmental and economic benefits of developing homegrown SAF alternatives.
A key part of this initiative involves calculating the Carbon Intensity (CI) of sugarcane-based SAF in India. CI reflects how much greenhouse gas is emitted for every unit of energy the fuel provides—an important factor in comparing SAF to fossil-based aviation fuel.
The three organizations will also work together to develop a certification process tailored to Indian conditions while staying in step with global sustainability benchmarks. These include the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) CORSIA and the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) CORSIA standards.
“India has strong potential to play a significant role in the sustainable fuel space. This effort will help ensure that our solutions are built on sound science and global best practices,” said Dr Pramod Chaudhari, Founder Chairman of Praj Industries.
Praj has been at the forefront of SAF development in India. Working with Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. and AirAsia India, it has already produced SAF from local resources, proving the fuel’s commercial viability. Praj’s innovation center, Praj Matrix in Pune, also houses the country’s first integrated SAF demonstration facility.
“Reliable data and certification are vital to building any new market. By tailoring these systems to Indian realities, we can speed up SAF adoption here and open doors for global acceptance,” said Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s SVP of Sustainability and Chief Economist.
“India’s ethanol success story has proven the strength of our sugar sector. Becoming Asia’s largest supplier of low-emission aviation fuel is the next step in contributing to a fair and sustainable energy future,” said Deepak Ballani, Director General of ISMA.
This collaboration marks a significant step in India’s green aviation journey, reinforcing its leadership role in reducing emissions. At the 81st IATA Annual General Meeting, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the country’s commitment to SAF and called for international cooperation in advancing green aviation infrastructure.
Praj Industries is one of India’s leading industrial biotech firms, known for its innovations in energy, environment, and agri-processing. With operations in over 100 countries and a focus on clean technologies, Praj plays a key role in advancing renewable mobility and sustainable materials. Its Bio-Mobility® platform supports low-carbon transportation solutions, while Bio-Prism® develops bio-based alternatives to traditional chemicals and materials.
The company’s R&D center, Praj Matrix, underpins its drive for a greener, circular economy. Praj also delivers high-performance systems for breweries, water treatment, and critical processing needs. Praj is publicly listed on the Bombay and National Stock Exchanges.
