Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi has replied in Parliament that 20 percent ethanol blend (E20) in petrol is a safe, clean and technologically advanced fuel. He made it clear that the government has no proposal to return to E0 (petrol without ethanol) or E10 petrol. The government’s policy is to move towards a better and better technology and not to return to a poor standard.
Target of 20% mix achieved in 2025-26
According to data presented in Parliament, India has achieved the target of 20% ethanol blending five years ahead of its target. The average ethanol blending was ~12% in 2022-23, which increased to ~14.6% in 2023-24, ~19.2% in 2024-25 and 20% in 2025-26 (November-June). At present no decision has been taken on blending more than 20%. Whereas E85 (85% ethanol) fuel brought for flex-fuel vehicles is certified only for those vehicles and is not included in the normal petrol supply.
Fears of engine damage dismissed
On social media and media reports of engine damage or reduced mileage, the government said that extensive laboratory tests, field validation (conducted by NITI Aayog, IOCL, ARAI, IIP and SIAM) and actual usage data have proven that E20 fuel does not cause any abnormal damage or wear to vehicles or engines. A major passenger vehicle manufacturer in the country serviced 2.84 crore vehicles during FY 2025-26, including about 1.5 crore older (non-E20 certified) vehicles, and there were no complaints of engine failure due to ethanol. Currently, more than 20 crore two-wheelers and more than 3 crore petrol cars are running on E15+ and E20 blends without any major malfunction.
Impact on mileage and performance
Regarding mileage, the government clarified that fuel efficiency depends on many factors—such as driving habits, vehicle maintenance and road conditions. In vehicles with older E10 design, there may be a maximum slight reduction of 3 to 5 percent in mileage from E20. However, E20 fuel has a higher octane rating, which improves vehicle pickup (acceleration), ride quality and engine performance.
Huge economic benefits to the country and farmers
- Foreign exchange has also been saved: More than ₹1.97 lakh crore foreign exchange was saved.
- Reduction in crude oil: Import of crude oil reduced by about 316 lakh metric tons.
- Reduction in carbon emissions: Approximately 952 lakh metric tons of CO2 emissions were reduced.
- Farmer Welfare: Farmers of the country received payment of more than ₹ 1.66 lakh crore.
Grievance Redressal and Consumer Support
Public sector oil marketing companies (OMCs) have created a robust system for redressal of complaints and suggestions related to E20. Consumers can register their complaints through the complaint book kept at petrol pumps, toll-free helpline number, company websites, mobile apps, social media and CPGRAMS portal, which are resolved within the stipulated time.
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