The Government of India has officially addressed the growing concerns and discussions regarding the increase of ethanol blending in petrol. During a session in the Rajya Sabha, the Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, clarified that there is currently no decision to raise the ethanol blending limit beyond the existing 20 percent mark. This statement comes amidst various queries and criticisms from opposition parties and stakeholders regarding the potential impact of higher ethanol concentrations on vehicle engines and overall performance.
Scientific Studies and Stakeholder Consultations
Minister Suresh Gopi emphasized that any future decision to increase the blending percentage wouldn't be taken in haste. He stated that such a move would only be considered after conducting comprehensive scientific and technical studies. On top of that, the government intends to engage in extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders, including automobile manufacturers, oil marketing companies (OMCs), and research institutions. This cautious approach is designed to ensure that any changes in fuel composition are technically viable and don't adversely affect the millions of vehicle owners across the country.
Significant Economic and Environmental Gains
The ethanol blending program has yielded substantial benefits for the Indian economy and the environment since its intensified implementation in 2014-15.97 trillion rupees. By substituting a portion of petrol with ethanol, the country has managed to reduce its crude oil consumption by approximately 316 lakh tons. From an environmental perspective, the program has successfully prevented the emission of about 952 lakh tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), contributing Notably to India's climate goals. 66 lakh crore rupees through the sale of feedstock for ethanol production.
Addressing Vehicle Performance Concerns
One of the primary concerns raised in Parliament was the impact of E20 fuel (petrol blended with 20 percent ethanol) on vehicle engines. Addressing these worries, the Minister noted that the government has not received any widespread or concrete complaints regarding engine failure, fuel pump issues, corrosion, or water contamination from automobile manufacturers, associations, or consumer groups. While the government is aware of concerns expressed on social media and in news reports, scientific evaluations have not substantiated these claims. The Minister pointed out that India has over 20 crore two-wheelers and 3 crore petrol cars, many of which have been running on E15-plus and E19-E20 fuels for several years without any certified incidents of engine damage or breakdown.
Data from Major Manufacturers
To support the government's stance, Minister Gopi cited service data from a leading four-wheeler manufacturer. 5 crore vehicles that weren't E20 certified. Remarkably, the service records showed no instances of fuel-related damage. A similar report was provided by a major two-wheeler manufacturer, further reinforcing the safety of the current blending levels. Regarding mileage, the Minister admitted that older vehicles designed for E10 might see a minor reduction in fuel efficiency, typically ranging between 3 to 5 percent. However, he highlighted that E20 fuel offers a higher octane rating and cleaner combustion, and manufacturers continue to provide warranties for vehicles using E20 fuel.
Food Security and Feedstock Management
The government also addressed concerns regarding food security, asserting that the 20 percent blending target has not compromised the availability of food crops. The policy dictates that only surplus food grains are utilized for ethanol production, after meeting the requirements of the Public Distribution System (PDS), the National Food Security Act, and maintaining necessary buffer stocks. 28 lakh tons by June 30 in 2025-26.87 lakh tons in 2025-26. He described the program as a waste-to-wealth initiative that has not impacted the retail inflation of sugar or rice.
Water Sustainability and Procurement Trends
Water usage in ethanol production was another point of discussion. The government has diversified feedstock to include crops like maize alongside sugarcane to ensure water sustainability. The share of maize in ethanol production rose from zero in 2021-22 to approximately 37 percent in 2025-26. Production facilities use between 3 to 5 liters of processed water per liter of ethanol and are required to operate as zero-liquid-discharge units. Procurement data shows a strong growth in the sector, while 43 crore liters of ethanol worth 49,577 crore rupees. 04 crore liters worth 48,757 crore rupees in 2023-24. Currently, 501 ethanol suppliers are registered with these companies. The Minister concluded by stating there is no proposal to mandate unblended petrol at select outlets, as maintaining separate supply chains would increase costs and diminish the benefits to farmers and the environment.