The debate over E20 petrol continues to gather pace, with questions being raised about fuel efficiency and engine performance. Amid the growing controversy, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has strongly defended ethanol-blended fuel, challenging critics to provide proof that it has damaged any vehicle.
Responding to concerns surrounding E20 fuel, Gadkari said there has not been a single confirmed case of a car, bike or scooter being damaged because of E20 petrol. “There is no case of any car facing issues due to E20 petrol. Has there been any car in the country that faced issues due to the use of E20 petrol? Just name one,” the minister said.
The minister also alleged that false information is being circulated about E20 fuel and claimed that paid campaigns are being run to create negative perceptions.
Why Is E20 Petrol Facing Criticism?
The discussion around E20 petrol has intensified in recent months, with some vehicle owners and social media users claiming that the fuel reduces mileage and may affect engine components over time.
These concerns have fuelled a wider debate over the government’s push towards higher ethanol blending. However, Gadkari rejected these claims and insisted that no verified case has shown E20 petrol causing damage to any vehicle.
Government Says Ethanol Will Reduce Fuel Imports
Highlighting the benefits of ethanol-blended fuel, Gadkari said India spends nearly Rs 22 lakh crore every year on fossil fuel imports, putting a heavy burden on the economy while increasing pollution.
According to him, expanding the use of green and alternative fuels is essential for reducing dependence on imported crude oil and lowering carbon emissions.
Farmers Have Benefited, Says Minister
Gadkari also said the increase in ethanol production has helped farmers earn more, particularly those growing maize.
He explained that when the government encouraged ethanol production from maize, the crop’s market price was around Rs 1,200 per quintal, while the Minimum Support Price (MSP) stood at Rs 1,800 per quintal. He claimed the market price later rose to nearly Rs 2800 per quintal, adding that farmers in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar have collectively gained around Rs 45000 crore because of the policy.
Gadkari Responds to Conflict of Interest Allegations
Addressing allegations that his family’s businesses are linked to ethanol production, Gadkari clarified that although his family owns sugar mills, their companies are not dependent on the ethanol business.
He said the decision to promote E20 fuel was taken in the interest of the country and farmers, not for any personal financial benefit.
Government Plans More Ethanol-Based Fuels
The government is now preparing to expand the use of fuels with even higher ethanol content. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed amendments to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, to facilitate the use of alternative fuels such as E85, E100, B100 biodiesel and Hydrogen-CNG.
The proposed changes are expected to encourage the adoption of flex-fuel and biofuel-powered vehicles in the coming years.
