Biomass has been one of the main energy sources for mankind ever since the dawn of civilization although its importance dwindled after the expansion in use of oil and coal in the late 19th century. There has been a resurgence of interest in the recent years in biomass energy in many countries considering the benefits it offers. The Government of India through the MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy) has been aware of the potential and role of biomass energy in the Indian context and hence has initiated a number of programmes for promotion of modern technologies for its use in various sectors of the
economy to ensure derivation of maximum benefits.