The Biogas Programme, a sub-scheme of the National Bio Energy Programme, is an initiative by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Government of India. This program aims to promote the adoption of biogas plants for clean cooking fuel, lighting, and organic manure production, contributing to both environmental sustainability and rural livelihoods. This piece explores the objectives, implementation, and key features of the Biogas Programme.
Background and Objectives
India possesses abundant renewable energy resources, including bio-waste. The Biogas Programme seeks to harness this potential by promoting the use of biogas plants. The objectives of the program are:
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To set up biogas plants for clean cooking fuel, lighting, heating, and small power needs.
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To reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, improve sanitation, empower women, and create rural employment opportunities.
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To produce organic-enriched bio-manure from biogas plants, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
Scope of the Biogas Programme
The scheme aims to popularize biogas plants of varying sizes, ranging from 1 cubic meter (m³) to 2500 m³ per day. These plants are targeted for:
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Individual households.
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Farmers.
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Poultry farms.
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Goshala (cattle shelters).
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Distilleries.
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Cooperatives.
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Industries.
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Organizations.
Implementation Mechanism
The Biogas Programme is implemented through:
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State Implementing Agencies (PIAs): The program is implemented by designated PIAs, such as State Nodal Agencies, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), and other agencies.
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Financial Institutions: Financing Organizations/Institutions/Banks, Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), NABARD, and RBI also implement the program in consultation with PIAs.
Central Financial Assistance (CFA)
The Central Government provides financial assistance for biogas plants ranging from 1 m³ to 25 m³ per day. The CFA amounts vary based on the region and category of beneficiaries:
| Category | CFA (₹ per 1 cubic meter biogas plant) |
| Hilly/NER States (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, and Uttarakhand) | 17,000 to 70,400 |
| Scheduled Castes (SC) / Scheduled Tribes (ST) | 14,800 to 52,800 |
| All other States and Categories | 9,800 to 52,800 |
Additional Fixed Subsidy
Additional fixed subsidies are provided for:
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Biogas plants linked with sanitary toilets: ₹1,600 per plant.
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Biogas plants linked with MNRE-approved biogas slurry filter units: ₹1,600 per unit.
Turn-Key Job Fee
A turn-key job fee is provided for installation of biogas plants, ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 per plant, depending on the size.
Administrative Charges
Administrative charges are provided to PIAs based on the target achievement, ranging from ₹1,00,000 to ₹24,50,000.
Support for Training Courses
Financial support is provided for training courses, including:
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User Course
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BTP Course
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Construction-cum-Maintenance/Refresher Course
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Turnkey Workers Course/Skill Development Course
Incentives for Saving Fossil Fuels and Electricity
An additional incentive of ₹10,000 per biogas-based generator set is provided for meeting small farm power and water pumping needs.
CFA for Medium Size Biogas Plants
For medium-sized biogas plants (above 25 m³ to 2500 m³), the CFA is provided based on power generation capacity, with varying rates for thermal and power applications.
Proposal Submission
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Small Biogas Plants (1 m³ to 25 m³): Individual beneficiaries can submit their applications through the MNRE’s biogas portal.
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Medium Biogas Plants (above 25 m³ to 2500 m³): Proposals are submitted by PIAs to MNRE.
Project Approval and Completion
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The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) allocates annual physical targets for setting up biogas plants.
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Each biogas plant proposal is reviewed and approved by MNRE.
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Installation of small biogas plants should be completed within a year.
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Installation of medium-sized biogas plants should be completed within 12 months.
Release of Funds
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For small biogas plants, the CFA is released to PIAs on a reimbursement basis.
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For medium-sized biogas plants, the CFA is released to the beneficiaries after successful commissioning.
Roles and Responsibilities of Implementing Agencies
The Implementing Agencies are responsible for:
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Demand aggregation and submission of proposals.
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Assessing applications and taking action for installation.
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Monitoring progress and updating information on the MNRE Biogas Portal.
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Ensuring project completion and compliance with guidelines.
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Submitting financial documents and ensuring timely disbursement.
Biogas Development and Training Centres (BDTCs)
MNRE has designated eight BDTCs in different states to provide technical support and conduct training programs.
Monitoring and Review of the Biogas Programme
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PIAs are required to monitor the implementation of projects.
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Information is reported on the MNRE Biogas portal on a half-yearly basis.
Award Scheme
MNRE recognizes and awards PIAs for overall performance and achieving high targets.
Conclusion
The Biogas Programme is a crucial initiative for promoting clean energy and sustainable development in India. By providing financial assistance, technical support, and training, the scheme aims to encourage the widespread adoption of biogas plants. The program contributes to reducing emissions, improving sanitation, and empowering rural communities through self-employment opportunities.