Onlykashmir.in News Desk
The Union government on Thursday moved to firmly counter concerns swirling around ethanol-blended petrol, clarifying that no decision has been taken to raise the blending level beyond the current 20 percent mark and that any future move in that direction would follow rigorous scientific study and consultation with stakeholders. The clarification came in a written reply to the Lok Sabha from the Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, addressing questions about the safety, performance and economic impact of the Ethanol Blended Petrol Programme.
The government stressed that E85 fuel, containing 85 percent ethanol, has been introduced strictly for Flex Fuel Vehicles specifically designed and certified for it, and does not represent a rise in the nationwide baseline blending level. Officials noted that India achieved 20 percent ethanol blending five years ahead of its original target, the culmination of more than two decades of phased policy development involving NITI Aayog, automobile manufacturers, oil marketing companies and technical bodies such as the Automotive Research Association of India and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers.
Addressing widely circulated concerns over engine damage, the government cited data showing more than 20 crore two-wheelers and over 3 crore petrol cars have operated on E15 to E20 blends for over two and a half years without verified evidence of widespread engine failure. One of the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturers reportedly serviced 2.84 crore vehicles in the last financial year, including 1.5 crore older, non-E20-certified vehicles, without reporting any related engine damage.
On mileage concerns, the government acknowledged that fuel efficiency in certain E10-designed vehicles could see a reduction of roughly three to five percent, while maintaining that E20 offers a higher octane rating, superior anti-knock properties and cleaner combustion overall. Officials said no substantiated complaints had been received from manufacturers or consumer bodies regarding drastic mileage loss or fuel tank corrosion, though concerns raised in media and social channels have been scientifically examined by an Inter-Ministerial Committee.
The government highlighted substantial national gains from the programme, citing foreign exchange savings exceeding ₹1.97 lakh crore, a reduction of nearly 316 lakh metric tonnes in crude oil imports, roughly 952 lakh metric tonnes in avoided carbon emissions, and over ₹1.66 lakh crore transferred directly to farmers supplying ethanol feedstock.
With the transition scientifically validated and industry-accepted, officials confirmed there is no proposal to revert to E0 or E10 fuel, framing the policy as one of moving forward with cleaner technology rather than retreating to older, less efficient standards. Oil marketing companies have been directed to maintain robust grievance redressal channels, including CPGRAMS, toll-free lines and retail outlet registers, to address any residual consumer concerns as the programme continues.
