The debate over the Centre's E20 ethanol-blended fuel programme has extended to Punjab's agricultural sector, with several farmers and farm representatives opposing any move to halt the initiative. Their response comes after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal raised concerns over the Centre's push for E20 petrol, arguing that it could affect older vehicles, reduce fuel efficiency and has not been accompanied by adequate consumer awareness. However, farmers in Punjab say the ethanol blending programme has become an important source of income and a key driver of crop diversification.

Over the past few years, the demand for maize from ethanol manufacturing units has encouraged many farmers in Punjab to shift away from the traditional wheat-paddy cultivation cycle. Ethanol production has emerged as an alternative market for maize, offering farmers improved price realisation and reducing their dependence on government procurement of paddy. Agricultural experts have also identified ethanol production as an important component of efforts to diversify cropping patterns in the state and promote sustainable farming practices.

Narinder Bhel, president of the Majha Zone Arthia Association, said uncertainty surrounding the E20 programme could negatively impact farmers who have invested in maize cultivation. He said the ethanol industry has encouraged farmers to diversify crops by ensuring better returns and warned that any slowdown in the programme could affect demand for maize. Bhel urged both the Centre and the Punjab government to keep political differences aside and continue policies that provide stable income opportunities for farmers.

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Several farmers echoed similar concerns, stating that higher maize prices linked to ethanol production have improved their financial condition. Didar Singh from Akbarpura village said he shifted from wheat and paddy cultivation to maize because it offers better earnings. Jagroop Singh of Bhurli village noted that increased purchases by ethanol plants have pushed up maize prices, benefiting small farmers. Another farmer, Jagjit Singh, said improved maize prices have made it easier for farming families to meet household expenses and expressed concern over any policy changes that could reduce demand.

The Centre has maintained that the ethanol blending programme supports multiple national objectives, including reducing crude oil imports, lowering carbon emissions and creating additional demand for agricultural produce. Government officials have also stated that E20 fuel has been introduced in a phased manner, extensively tested and used by millions of two-wheelers and four-wheelers without significant issues. As the debate continues, the E20 programme has evolved beyond a discussion on fuel policy in Punjab, becoming a broader issue linked to farmers' livelihoods, crop diversification and the rural economy.

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