Saturday, March 29, 2025
Is Ethanol Blending Damaging Engines? Modi Government Clarifies Concerns and Future Roadmap
The Modi government has dismissed widespread concerns that blending ethanol with petrol is harming vehicle engines or reducing mileage. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri clarified that claims of adverse effects on vehicles are “misleading,” while signaling that ethanol blending may now be capped at 20 percent.
Puri stated that when the program began in 2014, ethanol blending in petrol was just 1.4 percent. Today, it has reached 20 percent, achieving the government’s initial target. “I would say we should put a full stop here. There is no proposal before the government to increase the limit further,” Puri remarked, indicating that 20 percent may remain the maximum blend level.
Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has often faced criticism over ethanol promotion, with opposition leaders and social media users alleging a conflict of interest because of his son’s business links to the sector. Some pointed to the profits of his son Nikhil’s company, suggesting Gadkari was personally benefiting from the policy.
Responding sharply, Gadkari stressed that ethanol blending benefits farmers and is environmentally friendly. “I have a mind that can earn ₹200 crore every month with honesty. Why would I need to do anything wrong?” Gadkari said sarcastically, rejecting accusations of impropriety.
Addressing public concerns, Puri explained that an inter-ministerial committee is currently evaluating whether ethanol blending could be increased to 30 percent by 2030. However, he stressed that no such decision has been taken yet.
“Every suggestion that we are moving towards a new jump is incorrect. We have not reached any conclusion. Vehicle manufacturers themselves have not given a clear view on the issue, which has added to confusion and created unnecessary fears,” Puri said.
The government’s clarification signals that while the ethanol program has hit its milestone target, expansion beyond 20 percent remains uncertain. For now, policymakers are balancing environmental and agricultural benefits with technical challenges posed for vehicle manufacturers and consumers.
