# India ethanol fuel policy and regulation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/india-ethanol-fuel-policy-and-regulation
> Updated: 2026-10-27T13:01:26.000Z. Sources: 24. Developments: 2.

The Indian government has expanded its regulatory framework for biofuels by amending the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. This amendment formally recognizes E100 fuel—nearly 100 per cent ethanol—alongside E85 for flex-fuel vehicles, provided they are specifically designed and certified by manufacturers to handle high-ethanol blends.

While the regulatory shift supports the domestic biofuel industry and aims to reduce crude oil imports, the government has indicated it has no immediate plans to increase the standard ethanol blending level in petrol beyond the current 20 per cent (E20) target. Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri addressed concerns regarding E20 fuel, stating there is insufficient evidence that it causes widespread engine damage, though vehicles manufactured before 2003 may face compatibility issues.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-27: India to maintain ethanol blending in petrol at 20 percent

India's Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated there are no current plans to raise ethanol blending in petrol above 20 percent, defending E20 fuel against claims of engine damage.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-to-maintain-ethanol-blending-in-petrol-at-20-percent

### 2026-10-26: India approves E100 ethanol fuel for flex-fuel vehicles

India has amended motor vehicle rules to allow E100 (nearly 100% ethanol) fuel in specially designed flex-fuel vehicles to reduce oil imports and emissions.

23 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/india-approves-e100-ethanol-fuel-for-flex-fuel-vehicles

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Cite as: India ethanol fuel policy and regulation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/india-ethanol-fuel-policy-and-regulation