India to maintain ethanol blending in petrol at 20 percent

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri announced that the Indian government has no immediate plans to increase the ethanol blending level in petrol beyond the current 20 percent target. Speaking at the 29th Energy Technology and Innovation Meet in South Goa, Puri addressed concerns regarding E20 fuel, which consists of 20 percent ethanol and 80 percent petrol.

Puri dismissed claims that E20 fuel is causing widespread engine damage, stating there is insufficient evidence to support such allegations. However, he noted that vehicles manufactured before 2003 might face compatibility issues. He also criticized the spread of misinformation on social media regarding biofuel usage and vehicle breakdowns.

The government’s ethanol blending strategy aims to reduce dependence on imported crude oil and decrease the current account deficit. Puri highlighted the economic benefits of the program, stating that E20 fuel has helped the country save approximately Rs 1,60,000 crore, with Rs 1,40,000 crore of that amount benefiting farmers, transitioning them from food providers to energy providers.