Archive · 20 Jul 2026
India Holds on Ethanol Blending Decision
The Indian government has not yet decided to increase the amount of ethanol mixed with petrol beyond the current 20%.
This decision is on hold until more scientific studies and talks with industry experts are completed.
The government has shared that the current 20% ethanol blending has saved a lot of money, reduced pollution, and helped farmers earn more.
They also mentioned that there have been no major problems with vehicles using this fuel.
The government is using extra grains that are not needed for food to make ethanol, so it doesn't affect the food supply.
They are also careful about using water wisely in the process.
There is no plan to offer petrol without ethanol at some outlets because it would be more expensive and not as good for the environment.
The government has not decided to increase ethanol blending in petrol beyond 20% yet.
Any increase would require further scientific study and consultation with stakeholders.
India achieved the 20% blending target five years ahead of schedule.
The program has saved over 1.97 trillion rupees in foreign exchange and reduced carbon emissions.
No widespread vehicle issues have been reported with the current ethanol blending levels.
- Who
- Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi
- What
- No decision has been made to increase ethanol blending in petrol beyond 20%
- When
- The information was provided on Monday, July 20, in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha
- Where
- India
- Why
- Further scientific study and consultation with industry are required before any decision is made
Pro-Ethanol Blending
Concerns Over Ethanol Blending
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Pro-Ethanol Blending
The government highlights significant savings in foreign exchange, reduced carbon emissions, and increased farmer income as benefits of the ethanol blending program.
Concerns Over Ethanol Blending
Critics may argue that the environmental and economic benefits need to be balanced with potential risks to vehicle performance and food security.
Vehicle Performance
Pro-Ethanol Blending
The government asserts that there is no verified evidence of widespread engine failure or vehicle breakdown due to E20 fuel.
Concerns Over Ethanol Blending
Some vehicle manufacturers and consumers may have concerns about potential engine issues, fuel-pump problems, and corrosion linked to higher ethanol blends.
Food Security
Pro-Ethanol Blending
The government states that only surplus grains are used for ethanol production, ensuring that food crop availability is not reduced.
Concerns Over Ethanol Blending
There may be concerns about the impact on food security, especially with the diversion of significant amounts of rice and maize for ethanol production.
- Current Ethanol Blending Level
- 20%
- Foreign Exchange Saved
- Over 1.97 trillion rupees since 2014-15
- Crude Oil Displaced
- Nearly 316 lakh tonnes
- Carbon Dioxide Emissions Avoided
- About 952 lakh tonnes
- Additional Farmer Income
- More than Rs 1.66 lakh crore
- Rice Diverted for Ethanol (2025-26)
- 39.28 lakh tonnes
- Maize Diverted for Ethanol (2025-26)
- 67.87 lakh tonnes
- Ethanol Procured (2025-26)
- 705.43 crore litres worth Rs 49,577 crore
Sources
No decision yet on petrol blending beyond 20% ethanol, says minister Suresh Gopi - Telegraph India
No decision yet on raising ethanol blending beyond 20 percent, government tells Parliament
Centre yet to decide on raising ethanol blending in petrol beyond 20%: Suresh Gopi
Ethanol Blending Beyond 20% Needs Scientific Study, Stakeholder Consultations: Govt
