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Last update : 28.10.2010

As India’s economy has grown, its energy demand has increased rapidly and the Indian government has looked to alternative supplies, including biofuels. The jatropha plant – a bush native to South America which grows in dry areas and can produce oil-rich seeds – has been identified as an ideal source of biodiesel, with a target set to replace 20% of diesel consumption by 2017. Biofuels crops have been the subject of widespread criticism as growing demand to use crops for fuel has impacted on food prices, biodiversity and rural communities. As a non-food crop, jatropha was recommended as not affecting food supplies. It would create jobs in rural areas, driving development, the government claimed. This report looks at the impact of India’s jatropha targets on rural communities, focusing on the state of Chhattisgarh - a traditional rice-growing area where the crop is being grown. The report finds that thousands of tribal and lower caste Indians have been forced from community lands which they have relied on for generations.

Added on 26 July 2010
Legislation :: Economy :: Environment :: Society :: Biodiesel :: Agriculture :: Asia

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