E-20 Petrol a ‘Healthy Trend’ for India: Gadkari Says Ethanol Blending Cuts Pollution, Saves ₹1.40 Lakh Crore
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Thursday strongly endorsed the nationwide rollout of E-20 petrol, describing the move as a “healthy trend” that is delivering significant economic, environmental, and agricultural benefits to India. Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Gadkari highlighted the success of the government’s Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP) and its growing impact on the country’s fuel ecosystem.
According to the minister, the ethanol blending initiative has resulted in foreign exchange savings of over ₹1.40 lakh crore, substantially reducing India’s dependence on imported crude oil. He noted that increased domestic ethanol production has strengthened energy security while keeping fuel costs in check.
Gadkari also underlined the environmental advantages of E-20 fuel, stating that the programme has helped cut nearly 790 lakh metric tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions so far. He added that E-20 petrol is a less polluting alternative compared to conventional fuels and plays a key role in India’s efforts to combat climate change and improve air quality.
Highlighting the positive impact on the rural economy, the minister said the Ethanol Blending Programme has provided a major financial boost to farmers, particularly those supplying sugarcane, maize, and other raw materials used in ethanol production. The initiative, he said, has created a sustainable revenue stream for the agricultural sector.
Addressing concerns over vehicle compatibility, Gadkari assured the House that extensive testing has been conducted, confirming that the use of E-20 petrol does not adversely affect vehicle performance or engine health. He reiterated that automobile manufacturers are aligned with the transition and future vehicles are being designed to fully support higher ethanol blends.
The government sees the E-20 rollout as a crucial step towards cleaner mobility, reduced oil imports, and inclusive economic growth, with Gadkari reaffirming the Centre’s commitment to expanding the ethanol blending roadmap in the coming years.