Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri rejects ethanol criticism, says no evidence of engine problems

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has strongly rejected the recent controversy surrounding ethanol-blended petrol, saying the concerns are being driven by "misreporting and misinterpretation" rather than facts. His remarks come after social media posts claimed that E20 petrol damages vehicle engines, attracts pests and reduces fuel efficiency. The government has repeatedly said these claims are not backed by evidence.

Responding to the criticism, Puri questioned why the issue was being raised now when E20 petrol has already been in use for more than a year.

"There are 20 crore two-wheelers on the road and 20 lakh four-wheelers using this fuel. The automobile manufacturers, as well as the people who service



these vehicles, all say there is no difficulty. Why this sudden interest?," he questioned. 

He also pointed out that India has been using E15 fuel for the past three-and-a-half years without major concerns.

Addressing speculation about the government moving to E25 fuel, Puri clarified that no such decision has been taken.

"If someone is suggesting E25, we have made it clear that we are conducting tests. Those tests will take time. Once the reports are available, we will evaluate them. Then we will discuss the findings with the stakeholders and the automobile manufacturers."

He added that any future decision would be based on scientific testing and consultations with vehicle manufacturers.