Hyderabad: Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday strongly defended the nationwide rollout of E20 ethanol-blended petrol, stating that millions of vehicles across the country are already using the fuel without any reported technical problems. He also clarified that the government would adopt a scientific and consultative approach before considering the introduction of E25 fuel.
Speaking to ANI, Puri said nearly 20 crore two-wheelers and 20 lakh four-wheelers are currently running on E20 petrol. He added that automobile manufacturers and vehicle service providers have consistently confirmed that there have been no issues with the fuel.
The minister questioned the recent criticism surrounding ethanol blending, noting that E15 fuel, containing 15 per cent ethanol, has been in use for over three and a half years. He pointed out that the transition to E20 petrol began in April 2025 and has continued smoothly, with positive feedback from both manufacturers and consumers.
Addressing discussions on the possible introduction of E25 petrol, Puri said the government would not rush into a decision. He stressed that extensive scientific testing is currently underway and that any move towards a higher ethanol blend would only be made after reviewing test results and holding consultations with automobile manufacturers and other stakeholders.
“The transition will be based on technical assessments and industry feedback,” Puri said, adding that vehicle manufacturers have publicly expressed confidence in E20-compatible vehicles.
The minister also spoke about E85 fuel, which contains 85 per cent ethanol, saying that its rollout has only recently begun. He explained that widespread adoption of E85 would require the development of dedicated fuel stations and supporting infrastructure, making it a gradual process.
Puri’s remarks came on the same day that Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari also defended the government’s ethanol blending programme during the Viksit Bharat Conclave in New Delhi. Gadkari dismissed allegations that E20 petrol had caused vehicle damage, stating that no such cases had been reported and challenging critics to identify even a single affected vehicle. He further alleged that misinformation surrounding higher ethanol blends was part of “paid campaigns.”
India has already achieved its target of 20 per cent ethanol blending in petrol, a major milestone in the country’s energy transition strategy. Ethanol, produced from biomass such as sugarcane, maize, and rice, is being promoted as a cleaner alternative fuel to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthen India’s energy security.
The Centre maintains that expanding ethanol blending will not only benefit the environment but also support farmers and enhance the country’s long-term energy sustainability.
