Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, came out strongly in defense of the 20 percent ethanol-blended petrol (E20) rollout in India, denying criticism as an element of a paid campaign with vested interests. Gadkari made allegations against a social media campaign against ethanol at the 65th annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), in New Delhi, and said that it was a political attack directly against him.
His remarks come a few days after the Supreme Court turned off a public interest litigation (PIL) to compel obligatory access to ethanol-free petrol (E0) at all fueling stations on September 1. The Centre had been against the plea, terming it as an effort to cripple the national clean fuel policy of India.
In April 2023, India launched 20 percent ethanol-blended petrol in the country, five years before the government targeted this. The program will reduce carbon emissions, decrease the importation of crude oil, and assist farmers. However, critics claim that the blend of ethanol may decrease the vehicle’s performance and decrease the engine’s lifespan.
The petitioners had requested alternatives of E0 or at least E10 fuel, arguing that vehicles produced prior to April 2023 have mechanical dangers and economic liabilities under E20. The petitioner was represented by senior advocate Shadan Farasat, who emphasized that it was not the demand to stop ethanol blending, only transparency and consumer choice.
Attorney General R. Venkataramani responded, stating that the petition was a disguise of lobby groups that opposed a green transition of India. The Petroleum Ministry defended the policy too, claiming that the reduction in efficiency is small – no more than 1-2 percent on newer cars so that they will run on E10, and 3-6 percent on older models.
Gadkari reiterated that ethanol is an import substitute, exists at relatively low costs, is non-polluting, and indigenous. In pointing out that India incurs 22 lakh crore every year on importing fossil fuel, he pointed out that the same funds would ensure that the income of farmers is increased and the country is energized to be self-sufficient.
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