Mumbai, July 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Centre’s E20 ethanol-blended fuel programme is technically robust and is expected to deliver significant economic and agricultural benefits by reducing India’s dependence on imported petroleum while boosting demand for ethanol, according to Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Aniruddh B. Pandit.
Speaking on the impact of E20 fuel, Prof. Pandit said the policy would help the country save substantial foreign exchange by lowering crude oil imports. He added that increased ethanol production would create greater opportunities for the agricultural sector, providing additional income avenues for farmers.
He said the E20 blending initiative should be viewed as a positive development for both the economy and the farming community, noting that India continues to rely heavily on imported petroleum products.
Responding to concerns raised over ethanol-blended fuel, Prof. Pandit said there are no major technical issues associated with a 20 per cent ethanol blend. He observed that despite criticism of the policy, extensive scientific studies and technical evaluations had been carried out before its implementation.
According to him, modern vehicles are fully compatible with E20 fuel and are designed to operate without any significant performance or engineering concerns.
However, he acknowledged that some older vehicles could experience compatibility issues because ethanol may affect certain rubber and polymer components used in their fuel systems over time. He clarified that such concerns are largely confined to older vehicle models and do not undermine the technical viability of the E20 programme.
Prof. Pandit also pointed to India’s historical experience with ethanol as an automotive fuel, noting that vehicles running on 100 per cent ethanol were in use during the 1940s and 1950s. In that context, he said, the use of a 20 per cent ethanol blend should not present any significant engineering challenge.
The E20 fuel policy forms part of India’s broader strategy to promote cleaner fuels, strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
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