Transforming Agriculture: Discover India’s Corn Revolution at the 5th International Climate Summit by PHDCCI

New Delhi, August 30, 2025: The 5th International Climate Summit (ICS 2025), organized by PHDCCI, highlighted the unexpected potential of corn. Leaders from India and around the world shared insights about how this common grain could transform not just agriculture but also energy and the economy.

Union Minister Nitin Jairam Gadkari opened the summit by stressing the urgent need to address climate change. He pointed out that air pollution is a significant health issue, with 40% of India’s pollution stemming from transport. Gadkari proposed that biofuels, particularly ethanol made from corn, could reduce dependency on fossil fuels and drive down air pollution. He celebrated the rise in corn prices, attributing it to its role in producing biofuels. Farmers are no longer just growing food; they’re now creating fuel for vehicles and aircraft, boosting rural incomes by about ₹50,000 crore.

Mr. Hemant Jain, President of PHDCCI, emphasized the summit’s role in shaping India’s climate agenda. He shared that bioenergy is vital for India’s future, offering a renewable and local energy source.

Global perspectives further reinforced these points. Wagner Albuquerque de Almeida from the World Bank highlighted the need for private sector involvement in energy transitions. He noted that moving toward a bio-economy creates jobs and empowers communities.

Dr. Sadesh Sookraj from the IFC discussed corn’s role in promoting a circular economy, from reducing emissions to generating bio-fertilizers. Similarly, Femi Akinrebiyo pointed out corn’s potential in sustainable aviation fuel and bioplastics, reinforcing its pivotal role in achieving net-zero emissions.

Dr. J.P. Gupta from PHDCCI elaborated that India’s “Corn Revolution” is crucial for ensuring food and energy security. He affirmed that ethanol from corn could help India become energy self-reliant.

Dr. Ranjeet Mehta underscored the importance of collaborations among all stakeholders in advancing renewable energy. He urged industries to view sustainability as an investment rather than a cost.

The summit also featured a panel with experts discussing the multifaceted role of corn in the global bio-economy. Topics ranged from 2G ethanol to sustainable practices in agriculture.

Historical data supports these claims, as corn production has significantly increased in India over the past decade due to better agricultural practices and technology. According to the Indian Ministry of Agriculture, corn production rose from **5.7 million tons in 2007** to **29 million tons in 2020**, showcasing its rising importance in the agricultural landscape.

In a social media context, the summit sparked conversations around the “Corn Revolution” with the hashtag #CornForFuture trending. Users shared success stories of farmers whose livelihoods were transformed by biofuel initiatives.

This summit was supported by multiple Indian ministries and a host of organizations, reflecting a collective effort toward a sustainable future. As the world grapples with climate challenges, the insights from ICS 2025 suggest that solutions may lie in our everyday resources, like corn.

For more information on sustainable energy initiatives, visit [NITI Aayog](https://niti.gov.in) and the [International Energy Agency](https://www.iea.org).

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