Development of pongamia as a biofuel crop has largely been underway in India, at CJP where scientists have been assessing new crops to support sustainable rural development. There is significant interest in developing pongamia as a new source of biofuel. Its reputation in India as a sustainable rural fuel source, combined with its ability to establish on low fertility soils Cultivars are being selected that will yield seeds with up to 40% oil. The plant has attracted research interest due to its reputation as a drought tolerant crop and its traditional use as a source of oil for lamp fuel Pongamia has a long history of use by people. Research and field trials to assess the species’ capacity to produce biofuel have been underway at Centre ... (Read More)