Ethanol Blending in India: E20 Milestone and Concerns
Why in the news
India hit 20% ethanol blending early, boosting cleaner fuel and self-reliance but raising engine and supply worries.
| Milestone | Year |
|---|---|
| EBP launched | 2003 |
| E10 | 2022 |
| E20 | March 2025 |
| E30 target | 2030 |
Policy support
- National Policy on Biofuels (2018) allowed varied feedstocks such as sugarcane juice, FCI surplus grains and rotten potatoes.
- GST cut from 18% to 5%; fixed OMC prices; capital support and interest subvention for distilleries.
- PM-JI-VAN promotes 2G ethanol; India leads the Global Biofuels Alliance.
Concerns
- Ethanol absorbs water, so metal corrodes and rubber, plastic and fuel systems suffer.
- Lower energy density cuts mileage.
- Most vehicles, especially two-wheelers, suit E10; flex-fuel and retrofit norms are missing.
- Cold starts are harder in older engines.
- Retailers need upgraded storage; heavy sugarcane and maize use risks food security. SIAM seeks clarity and incentives.
Way forward
- Scale up 2G bioethanol from crop waste.
Exam angle
- Programme: EBP.
- 2018 policy: National Policy on Biofuels.
- Alliance: GBA.