Indeed, a big feather in the cap of India and extremely significant development in the renewable energy sector. India has officially signed the Host Country Agreement (HCA) with the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA), heading for the establishment of the Alliance’s Secretariat in India.
What is Biofuel?
It is a fuel that is produced over a short time span from biomass, rather than by the very slow natural processes involved in the formation of fossil fuels, such as oil.
The agreement was signed by Dammu Ravi, Secretary (Economic Relations) from the Ministry of External Affairs, and Pankaj Jain, Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, who is also the Interim Director General of the GBA.
Host Country Agreement (HCA) – Salient features
Enabling GBA to set up its Secretariat in India, having mixed staff – Indian and international personnel.
Establishing Secretariat in India will facilitate the GBA in achieving its biofuel promotion and development goals.
The HCA grants the GBA legal status, including privileges and immunities under the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act of 1947. This will help GBA to operate easily while
adhering to Indian laws.
Launch of GBA
The GBA was launched on September 9, 2023, during India’s G20 Presidency, initiated by the Indian Prime Minister and leaders from eight other countries. Argentina, Bangladesh, Brazil, Italy, Mauritius, Singapore, the UAE, and the USA were among founding members
This initiative supports India’s “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) vision by empowering local capabilities.
It also contributes to global efforts for sustainable energy solutions, positioning India as a key player in the biofuels sector.
