The Petroleum Ministry said E20 petrol may lower fuel economy by 3–5 per cent in some vehicles but offers cleaner combustion, better performance and lower emissions. It maintained extensive testing confirmed vehicle compatibility before nationwide implementation of the ethanol-blending programme
The Petroleum Ministry said India’s ethanol blending programme began in 2001 and evolved through years of policy, testing and consultations. It rejected claims of a rushed E20 rollout, highlighting expanded production, industry support, quality standards and strict monitoring against fuel adulteration