Lucknow – In a major push towards green energy, Uttar Pradesh is set to become the first state in India to introduce a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) policy, according to Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh. The announcement came during a high-level roundtable organized by Invest UP at the Taj Hotel in Lucknow, aimed at exploring investment opportunities in SAF manufacturing.
The roundtable, chaired by the Chief Secretary, brought together key industry players, investors, and policy experts to discuss the potential of the emerging SAF sector. The proposed “Uttar Pradesh Sustainable Aviation Fuel Manufacturing Promotion Policy 2025” was unveiled and extensively deliberated upon during the session.
A First-of-its-Kind Policy in India
Chief Secretary Singh highlighted the incentives and infrastructural support embedded in the proposed policy. He emphasized that Uttar Pradesh’s rich agricultural resources, robust infrastructure, and progressive industrial climate position it as a natural hub for SAF manufacturing.
“Through this policy, we aim not only to accelerate the growth of India’s green aviation fuel sector but also to ensure direct economic benefits for farmers,” Singh stated. “With this, we are investing in a cleaner future and simultaneously putting more money into the hands of our rural producers.”
New Opportunities for Farmers
The SAF industry relies heavily on biomass and grain-based feedstocks, including sugarcane bagasse, rice husk, wheat straw, and surplus grains. This creates new market linkages for farmers, as industries will source raw materials directly from agricultural zones—boosting rural income and securing fair prices for their produce.
Strong Industry Interest
During the session, Invest UP presented a comprehensive roadmap for SAF development in the state. Discussions included key issues like land availability, policy frameworks, and ease of doing business. Industry leaders provided valuable suggestions to fine-tune the draft policy.
More than 18 companies, including Greenko, AM Greens, E20 GreenFuels, New Era CleanTech, and Malbros Group, expressed keen interest in establishing SAF units in the state. Collectively, these firms proposed investments of over ₹3,000 crore in SAF manufacturing across Uttar Pradesh.
Ideal Conditions for SAF Manufacturing
Uttar Pradesh offers one of India’s largest and most integrated transportation networks—featuring five international airports (including the upcoming Jewar Airport), robust rail and road systems, and excellent market connectivity. When combined with the state’s forward-looking policies, these advantages make it an ideal destination for SAF production.
This initiative also aligns with Uttar Pradesh’s broader vision of becoming a $1 trillion economy, driven by sustainable and inclusive industrial development.
Government Commitment
The event also witnessed the participation of Invest UP CEO Vijay Kiran Anand and senior officials from various departments. Their presence underscored the state government’s firm commitment to green innovation, investment, and inclusive growth.
With this policy, Uttar Pradesh is not just leading the way in renewable aviation fuel but also setting a national benchmark for sustainable industrial practices.
