E20 Fuel Policy: Centre Says No Plan To Return To Pure Petrol

The Centre has ruled out any plan to return to pure petrol without ethanol blending, stating that E20 petrol is a safe, cleaner and technologically advanced fuel option for India. Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi informed Parliament that the government’s policy is focused on adopting better fuel technologies rather than moving back to older standards.

In a written reply, the minister said no decision has been taken to increase ethanol blending beyond 20 per cent at present. He highlighted that India achieved its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending five years ahead of the originally planned schedule, marking a major milestone in the country’s clean energy transition.

According to government data, ethanol blending in petrol increased steadily over recent years. The average blending rate was around 12 per cent in 2022-23, rising to approximately 14.6 per cent in 2023-24 and about 19.2 per cent in 2024-25. During the 2025-26 ethanol supply period, the blending level reached the 20 per cent target. The government clarified that E85 fuel, which contains 85 per cent ethanol, is meant only for flex-fuel vehicles and is not part of regular petrol supplies.

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Addressing concerns about possible engine damage due to E20 petrol, the government said extensive laboratory tests, field studies and real-world usage data have shown no abnormal engine damage or excessive wear caused by the fuel. The minister cited experiences of major automobile manufacturers, which reported no complaints of engine failures linked to ethanol use despite servicing millions of vehicles, including some that were not originally certified for E20 fuel.

The government also addressed concerns regarding reduced mileage, stating that fuel efficiency depends on factors such as driving patterns, vehicle condition and road conditions. Vehicles designed for E10 petrol may experience a marginal mileage reduction of around 3-5 per cent when using E20 fuel. However, officials said the higher octane rating of E20 can improve vehicle performance, including smoother operation and better pickup.

The Centre highlighted the economic and environmental benefits of the ethanol blending programme, stating that it has helped reduce crude oil imports and save foreign exchange. The initiative has reportedly contributed to savings of nearly Rs 2 lakh crore in foreign exchange, reduced crude oil imports by around 316 lakh metric tonnes, lowered carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 952 lakh metric tonnes and generated payments exceeding Rs 1.66 lakh crore for farmers.

The government also said oil marketing companies have established grievance redressal systems for consumers using E20 fuel. Complaints can be submitted through petrol pump registers, toll-free numbers, company websites, mobile applications, social media platforms and dedicated portals, with authorities stating that all grievances are reviewed and addressed according to established procedures.

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