Iran war disrupts India's energy markets, sparking shift to biofuels.

Iran war disrupts India's energy markets, sparking shift to biofuels. Geopolitical tensions have closed the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route for crude oil, driving prices sharply higher across Asia. In India, LPG costs have tripled for some consumers, while gasoline prices surge. The government is now pushing ethanol blending and biofuel alternatives to reduce import dependence. India imports nearly 90 percent of its crude oil, making it vulnerable to supply disruptions. Officials propose allowing vehicles to run on 85 to 100 percent ethanol and have banned sugar exports through September to secure raw materials. While biofuels could reduce pollution and import costs, experts warn about potential impacts on food security and agricultural land use. The transition will take years as supply chains develop and vehicle compatibility is tested.