<h1>Union urges biofuel producers to boost ethanol output for domestic blending and export, supports sugarcane farmers and timely payments</h1> The Union government urged biofuel producers to boost ethanol production for domestic blending and export, citing national biofuels policy achievements that raised ethanol blending from 1.5% to 20% and reduced crude imports, yielding significant foreign exchange savings. It emphasized measures supporting sugarcane farmers and timely cane payments, noting over 96% of current-season payments cleared. The government encouraged technological adoption and product diversification by sugar mills to enhance efficiency and rural income. Industry group projections anticipate stable sugar output for 2025-26, with a reassessment and advance estimate due in October-November.