Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri Defends E20 Fuel, Claims Ethanol Blending Saved ₹1.90 Lakh Crore

Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, has defended India's ethanol blending programme, claiming that E20 fuel has helped save ₹1.90 lakh crore in foreign exchange. He also questioned those who criticise the country's energy policy.

Ethanol blending remains one of the biggest talking points among motorists and drivers across the country. Many questions continue to be raised about the use of ethanol-blended fuel in vehicles. Some people claim that ethanol-blended petrol damages vehicles and causes component wear.

Consumers have also expressed concerns over E20 fuel and its impact. However, the government has denied these claims, stating that ethanol does not damage vehicles, apart from a minor reduction in fuel efficiency.

Union Minister Questions E20 Fuel Critics

In a recent social media post, Hardeep Singh Puri shared a video of himself responding to questions during an interview, where he claimed that the ethanol blending programme has helped India save ₹1.90 lakh crore in foreign exchange.

He also added that the programme has benefited farmers by generating additional income of more than ₹1.60 lakh crore. According to Hardeep Singh Puri, without ethanol blending, India would have required an additional 31 million metric tonnes of crude oil, which would have significantly affected the country's economy, especially considering the current geopolitical situation.

The minister described ethanol as "an energy shield" for the country, saying it is helping build a strong foundation for India's long-term goal of achieving 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat'. Responding to critics, Hardeep Singh Puri questioned their concerns about ethanol blending, stating that the programme increases farmers' income, saves valuable foreign exchange, and strengthens India's journey towards self-reliance.

Despite the government's claims, many consumers in India remain unconvinced about the country's ethanol blending programme, especially those who own older vehicles that are not E20-compliant. Fuel prices also remain a major concern, with many believing that blending ethanol should reduce petrol prices and lower their overall running costs.

The debate around E20 fuel continues to divide opinion, with the government highlighting its economic and energy security benefits, while many motorists remain concerned about vehicle compatibility, fuel efficiency, and running costs.