Cabinet Approves Rs 23,731-Crore GOBARdhan Scheme to Boost Biogas Production

NEW DELHI, Aug 6: The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved a unified GOBARdhan (Galvanising Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan) scheme with an outlay of ₹23,731 crore to accelerate biogas production and strengthen India's clean energy ecosystem. The scheme will be implemented from 2026-27 to 2035-36 and is aimed at making Compressed Biogas (CBG) a key component of the country's future energy mix, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said while briefing the media after the Cabinet meeting. According to an official statement, the scheme seeks to convert agricultural residue, cattle dung, press mud, municipal organic waste and other biomass resources into clean fuel, organic manure, additional rural income and economic value. The government said the initiative will provide a comprehensive framework for scaling up the CBG sector through assured market demand, stable and remunerative pricing, capital assistance, pipeline infrastructure, credit support and technology development. The GOBARdhan scheme is expected to promote sustainable waste management, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, generate rural employment and support India's transition towards a cleaner and more self-reliant energy system.