India Hosts Global Biofuels Alliance Secretariat
In a major development, India has signed the Host Country Agreement (HCA) with the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) to establish the Alliance’s Secretariat in India. The agreement was signed by Dammu Ravi from the Ministry of External Affairs and Pankaj Jain from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, who is also the Interim Director General of the GBA. The Union Cabinet approved this agreement on October 3.
The establishment of the Secretariat will involve both Indian and international staff, helping the GBA achieve its objectives. The agreement also grants the GBA legal status under the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act of 1947, ensuring smooth operations within Indian laws.
About the Global Biofuels Alliance
The Global Biofuels Alliance was launched on September 9, 2023, during India’s G20 Presidency by the Indian Prime Minister and leaders from eight other countries. This initiative aims to promote biofuels globally by tackling challenges like feedstock availability and developing policy frameworks. It also seeks to attract investment in biofuel production and establish common technical standards.
Since its inception, the Alliance has grown to include 27 countries and 12 international organizations. The Secretariat in India is expected to create job opportunities for Indian biofuel experts and provide a platform for showcasing India’s expertise in the biofuels sector. This aligns with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision, promoting self-reliance and sustainable energy solutions.
Doubts Revealed
Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) -: The Global Biofuels Alliance is a group of countries working together to promote the use of biofuels. Biofuels are fuels made from plants or other organic materials, which can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels like petrol and diesel.
Secretariat -: A Secretariat is like an office or headquarters where important work is done. In this case, it will be the main office for the Global Biofuels Alliance in India, where people will work on biofuel projects and ideas.
Sustainable Energy -: Sustainable energy means using energy sources that do not run out and are good for the environment. Biofuels are considered sustainable because they come from renewable resources like plants.
G20 Presidency -: The G20 is a group of 20 major countries that discuss and work on global economic issues. When a country has the G20 Presidency, it means it is leading the group’s meetings and activities for a certain period.
Self-reliance vision -: Self-reliance vision refers to India’s goal of becoming more independent and not relying too much on other countries for resources and energy. By hosting the GBA Secretariat, India aims to produce more of its own energy using biofuels.
