Archive · 23 Aug 2026
Gehlot Criticises Ethanol Blending Over Sugar and Consumer Costs
Ashok Gehlot says the government started mixing more ethanol with petrol without enough preparation.
He claims this has caused problems for ordinary people.
According to him, some sugarcane is being used to make ethanol instead of sugar.
He says this has contributed to higher sugar prices.
He also says some vehicle owners have reported engine problems and lower mileage.
These problems could make driving more expensive.
Gehlot raised concerns about pollution from making ethanol.
He wants the government to review the policy carefully.
Ashok Gehlot criticised the Narendra Modi government’s large-scale ethanol blending with petrol.
Gehlot alleged that diverting sugarcane to ethanol production is reducing sugar availability.
He claimed sugar prices rose by Rs 14 to Rs 17 per kilogram in 15 days.
He cited complaints of vehicle engine damage, lower mileage, and higher maintenance costs.
Gehlot called for a comprehensive review of the policy, including its environmental and consumer impacts.
- Who
- Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot criticised the Narendra Modi government.
- What
- Gehlot criticised large-scale ethanol blending with petrol and called for a review of the policy.
- Where
- The statement was reported from Jaipur and concerned the policy’s effects in India.
- Why
- Gehlot alleged that the policy is contributing to higher sugar prices, vehicle problems, added consumer costs, and pollution concerns.
- Speaker
- Ashok Gehlot, former Rajasthan chief minister
- Policy criticised
- Large-scale blending of ethanol with petrol
- Sugarcane concern
- Gehlot alleged that sugarcane is being diverted from sugar production to ethanol production.
- Reported price increase
- Gehlot claimed sugar prices rose by Rs 14 to Rs 17 per kilogram in 15 days.
- Vehicle complaints
- He cited complaints of engine damage and reduced mileage.
- Environmental concerns
- He raised allegations of air and water pollution linked to ethanol production.
- Proposed action
- Gehlot called for a comprehensive review after greater planning and preparation.