Under Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, ethanol blending has increased from less than 1.5 % in 2013-14 to 20 % in 2025-26. India achieved the 20 % blending target five years ahead of schedule in 2030.

• Ethanol (C2H5OH) is an ethyl alcohol produced from sugarcane, maize, wheat, and other crops with high starch content.
  • It is a high-octane fuel, with a research octane number of about 108.5, compared to 84.4 for petrol.

Key Concerns raised

• Compatibility with Older Vehicles: Ethanol is hygroscopic, increasing the risk of corrosion in fuel systems, particularly in older vehicles.
  • Hygroscopy refers to the property of a substance to attract and hold water molecules from the surrounding environment, either through absorption or adsorption.
• Lack of Consumer Choice: Unlike countries such as Brazil, Indian consumers generally cannot choose between E10 and E20 at fuel stations or benefit from differential pricing.
• Reduced Mileage: Many customers are claiming that their mileage has fallen due to E20 fuel. 
• Water Stress: Heavy dependence on sugarcane, a water-intensive crop, may worsen groundwater depletion in water-scarce regions.

India can follow Brazil's phased approach to ethanol blending, which gradually introduced higher blends alongside flex-fuel vehicles, differential pricing, and consumer choice.