Indian Government says ethanol blending in petrol is scientifically validated and safe
In India, Sarkaritel reported that India’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has reiterated that India’s Ethanol Blending Program (EBP) for petrol is scientifically validated and implemented through a robust framework involving extensive testing, technical evaluations and stakeholder consultations.
The clarification comes amid the circulation of misleading and unverified claims on social media regarding ethanol-blended petrol, the report stated.
According to the Ministry, certain social media posts and videos have attempted to create confusion by spreading misinformation about E20 fuel, including claims related to engine damage, vehicle breakdowns, insect attraction and direct mixing of sugarcane juice with petrol. The government has categorically stated that such claims are misleading, baseless and unsupported by scientific evidence.
The Ethanol Blending Program was launched in 2003 with the objectives of reducing India’s dependence on imported crude oil, enhancing energy security, supporting environmental sustainability and promoting the use of renewable fuels. The programme was implemented in a phased manner and culminated in the nationwide rollout of 20% ethanol blending (E20) from 2023 onwards.
The Ministry emphasized that the implementation of the program is continuously monitored in consultation with oil marketing companies (OMCs), automobile manufacturers, fuel testing agencies and other stakeholders.
Category: Policy
