Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari reaffirmed his commitment to making 100% bio-ethanol the “fuel of the future” at NDTV’s Green and Renewable Energy Summit on Monday. Amid rising public concerns over the government’s Ethanol-Blended Petroleum (EBP) program, particularly the E20 plan to blend all petrol with 20% ethanol by 2025-26, Gadkari emphasized its role in cutting vehicular emissions and reducing India’s fossil fuel dependency.

“Ethanol blending has already reduced pollution significantly,” Gadkari said, highlighting India’s position as the world’s third-largest vehicle-owning nation after China and the United States. With over 350 million vehicles contributing to a massive carbon footprint, the EBP program aims to achieve cleaner emissions and energy security. Ethanol blending rose from 12.06% in 2022-23 to 19.6% by February 2025, surpassing the 20% target earlier this year, driven by increased production from sugarcane, maize, and bamboo.

The minister showcased success stories, noting that 400 ethanol pumps now operate across Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, with plans for 2,000 more by 2027. He cited innovations like ethanol-powered bikes by TVS and Bajaj, and flex-fuel vehicles from Toyota and Tata, which can run on up to 85% ethanol. Gadkari also highlighted economic benefits, with farmers earning ₹1.2 lakh crore from ethanol production last year, boosting rural economies.

Also Read: India Hits 20% Ethanol Blending Goal Early

However, the E20 rollout has faced resistance from car owners, particularly those with older vehicles. Many worry that ethanol-blended fuel could damage engines not designed for it, citing reduced mileage and corrosion risks. Venkatesh Alla, a consumer from Hyderabad, took to X, calling the policy an “outright fraud” and threatening legal action against the Petroleum Ministry if his vehicle suffers damage. Posts on X reflect similar sentiments, with users questioning the lack of consumer choice and inadequate testing for pre-2018 vehicles.

Gadkari addressed these concerns, assuring that oil companies have upgraded fuel quality and that modern vehicles are E20-compatible. He urged retrofitting older models and announced a ₹500-crore fund for R&D to improve engine compatibility. The minister also emphasized global alignment, noting that Brazil and the U.S. have successfully implemented E20 and higher blends.

The E20 plan, part of India’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070, aims to cut crude oil imports, which cost ₹16 lakh crore annually, by 30% by 2030. Yet, critics argue the government must address infrastructure gaps, like ethanol pump availability in rural areas, and ensure transparent communication to win public trust. As India balances environmental goals with consumer concerns, Gadkari’s vision for a bio-ethanol-powered future faces a critical test.

Also Read: Goa’s Solar Industry Eyes Rs 325 Crore Boom by 2027