The Union Cabinet has approved GOBARdhan, the National Circular Bioenergy Scheme. Notably, the scheme has a total outlay of ₹23,731 crore. Moreover, it will run from 2026–27 to 2035–36. Clearly, it aims to make compressed biogas (CBG) a major pillar of India’s energy mix.
What Is the New GOBARdhan Scheme?
GOBARdhan is now India’s national unified scheme for compressed biogas. In simple terms, it turns organic waste into clean energy. For example, cattle dung, crop residue and food waste can all produce biogas. Then, the gas is cleaned and compressed for use as fuel.
Key Features
- Outlay: ₹23,731 crore
- Period: FY 2026–27 to FY 2035–36
- Assured offtake: Buyers will purchase the CBG produced.
- Stable pricing: Producers get price certainty.
- Capital assistance: Support for setting up plants.
- Pipeline connectivity: Links to gas pipelines.
- Access to finance: Easier loans for projects.
Benefits of Compressed Biogas
CBG offers many benefits. First, it cuts India’s dependence on imported gas. Second, it reduces open burning of crop residue. Third, it gives farmers extra income from waste. Also, the leftover slurry becomes organic manure. Hence, the scheme supports a circular economy.
Background of GOBARdhan
GOBARdhan stands for Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan. The government first launched it in 2018 under the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen). Similarly, the SATAT initiative of 2018 promoted CBG plants for transport fuel. Now, the new scheme brings these efforts under one national framework.
Why GOBARdhan Matters for UPSC and UKPSC
Notably, renewable energy and waste management are key GS Paper III topics. So, remember the outlay, the period and the full form. Also, link the scheme with SATAT and stubble burning. For official updates, also visit the GOBARdhan portal. Next, for a related story, read about PM Surya Sarovar Yojana for floating solar.
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