BJP MP Janardan Mishra defended India's E20 ethanol-blending policy, asking critics if pure petrol would come from their father's house.
The remark highlights the tension between the Indian government's push for energy independence and concerns over the impact of ethanol blends on vehicle engines.
Mishra used the rhetorical question to dismiss opposition to the Centre's policy, which integrates ethanol into gasoline to lower emissions and costs. He said the move is a strategic necessity for a nation with limited natural resources.
According to Mishra, India produces only about 20% of the crude oil it consumes [1]. The remaining 80% must be imported from other nations [1]. This dependency leaves the Indian economy vulnerable to global price fluctuations and geopolitical instability.
Mishra further noted the logistical burden of this reliance. He said ships must travel an additional distance of approximately 18,000 km to supply oil to the country [2]. By increasing the use of domestically produced ethanol, the government aims to shorten these supply chains and support local farmers.
The E20 program targets a 20% blend of ethanol in petrol. While the policy is designed to enhance energy security, some critics have raised concerns regarding engine compatibility, and fuel efficiency for older vehicle models.
Mishra said the shift is non-negotiable given the current energy landscape. He said that relying on foreign imports is unsustainable, a sentiment he paired with the jab at those demanding pure petrol.
“"Will pure petrol come from your father's house?"”
The E20 policy is a cornerstone of India's strategy to reduce its current trade deficit and carbon footprint. By substituting imported crude with domestically sourced ethanol, India seeks to insulate its economy from volatile global oil markets while providing a guaranteed market for sugarcane and grain farmers. However, the blunt nature of the government's defense suggests a growing impatience with technical and consumer-led opposition to the transition.
