The Indian government has clarified that no decision has been taken to increase ethanol blending in petrol beyond the 20% threshold.Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi stated that any future move to expand ethanol blending would depend on scientific studies and consultations with stakeholders, including automobile manufacturers and oil marketing companies.

The government emphasized that the transition to E20 petrol, which is now the standard across the country, has been a phased and evidence-based process.

While some concerns about reduced mileage and engine wear in older vehicles have been raised, the minister dismissed these claims as largely unsubstantiated.He noted that any impact on fuel economy in E10-designed vehicles is typically limited to 3-5%.

The government also ruled out immediate plans to introduce ethanol blending in diesel, highlighting the need for further evaluation before any such decision is made.