GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

Detailed explanation-1: -Jatropha Curcas is a low-cost biodiesel feedstock with good fuel properties and more oil than other species. It is a non-edible oilseed feedstock. Thus it will have no impact on food prices or the food vs fuel debate.

Detailed explanation-2: -Jatropha oil has been used in India for several decades as biodiesel for the diesel fuel requirements of remote rural and forest communities; jatropha oil can be used directly after extraction (i.e. without refining) in diesel generators and engines.

Detailed explanation-3: -Jatropha curcas is currently attracting much attention as an oilseed crop for biofuel, as Jatropha can grow under climate and soil conditions that are unsuitable for food production.

Detailed explanation-4: -In the West, biodiesel is produced mostly from field crops like rapeseed and sun flower in Europe and soyabean in the US. Malaysia utilises palm oil while Nicaragua uses Jatropha curcas (The Physic Nut) for bio diesel production.