Jatropha Curcas L. Silviculture and Uses (2nd Ed.)

Self-reliance in energy is a basic requirement for the economic development of any nation. India is not self sufficient in petroleum and has to import about two thirds of its requirement. If the oil price goes up the import cost also goes up immediately. Presently, India is importing 70% of petroleum fuel at a cost amounting Rs. 100,000 crores. Annual consumption of diesel in the country is around 40 million tons at present. Fossil fuel not only contributes to pollution but it is a major source of Green House Gases. The need to search for alternative sources of energy, which are renewable, safe and non-polluting, assumes top-priority in view of the uncertain supplies and frequent price hikes of fossil fuels in the international market. Under such circumstances, options available are to reduce the fossil fuel consumption and increase the energy efficiency. A number of Tree-borne oilseeds (TBOs) crops are identified as an alternate to diesel.

1.Introduction

2.Species Distribution

3.Tree Description

4.Ecological Requirements

5.Silviculture

6.Harvesting

7.Extraction of Oil

8.Yield Estimates

9.Cost of Cultivation

10.Biodiesel Production

11.Biodiesel in World

12.Biodiesel in India

13.Why Jatropha for Biodiesel Production

14.Bio-Diesel Purchase Policy

15.Uses

16.Prospects

17.Limitations of the Crop

18.Future Thrust Areas

List of Important Government and Private Institute/ Scientist Engaged in Research and Development of Jatropha

Bibliography

Appendix