Petroleum Minister Says Social Media Claims on E20 Are Based on Misinterpretation
Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has dismissed concerns surrounding ethanol-blended petrol, asserting that the debate over E20 fuel is being fuelled by misinformation rather than scientific evidence. His remarks come amid viral social media posts alleging that E20 petrol can harm vehicle engines, reduce fuel efficiency and create other operational issues.
Questioning the timing of the controversy, the minister noted that E20 petrol has already been in widespread use for more than a year without any significant issues being reported by vehicle owners or manufacturers.
He said millions of two-wheelers and passenger vehicles are already running on E20 fuel, adding that automobile manufacturers and service providers have not flagged any major technical concerns regarding its use.
Government Yet to Decide on E25 Fuel
Addressing speculation over a possible shift to E25 petrol, Puri clarified that the government has not taken any decision on introducing a higher ethanol blend.
He said extensive testing is currently underway and that any future move would depend on scientific findings and consultations with automobile manufacturers and other stakeholders. According to the minister, no policy decision will be made until the evaluation process is completed.
Centre Rejects Viral Claims About E20 Petrol
The controversy gained traction after several social media users claimed that E20 fuel could adversely affect engine performance and vehicle mileage. However, the Centre maintains that such claims are unsupported by evidence.
According to the government, vehicle manufacturers have already certified that E20-compatible vehicles can safely operate on the fuel. Puri also stressed that the government works closely with the automobile industry before implementing changes to fuel standards.
E85 Rollout to Be Gradual
The minister also spoke about E85 fuel, which contains a significantly higher proportion of ethanol. He said the rollout of E85 has only begun and will take place gradually, as it requires dedicated fuelling infrastructure, including specialised dispensing facilities at petrol pumps.
Ethanol Push Aims to Cut Oil Imports
The Centre has been expanding ethanol blending in petrol as part of its strategy to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, lower carbon emissions and support domestic agriculture by increasing demand for ethanol-producing crops such as sugarcane and maize.
From April 1, 2026, petrol containing up to 20% ethanol with a minimum Research Octane Number (RON) of 95 has been made available nationwide. The government says the higher octane rating is intended to improve engine performance while reducing the likelihood of engine knocking.
Officials maintain that E20 petrol is safe for compatible vehicles and reiterate that any decision to introduce higher ethanol blends will only be taken after comprehensive testing and industry consultations.
