BJP MP Defends Ethanol Blending Policy Amid Controversy
In a recent address, BJP MP Janardan Mishra defended the government's ethanol blending policy, challenging opposition claims about petrol availability. He highlighted India's reliance on oil imports and drew comparisons with Brazil's successful use of ethanol. Despite facing criticism from the Congress party, which argues that the policy benefits only ethanol producers, the government maintains that E20 petrol is efficient and environmentally friendly. Mishra's remarks have sparked a significant debate on fuel policies in India, raising questions about the future of petrol and ethanol use in the country.
Aug 10, 2026, 12:12 IST
BJP's Stand on Ethanol Blending Policy
Janardan Mishra, a Member of Parliament from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has come forward to defend the central government's ethanol blending policy, raising eyebrows with his provocative question to opposition parties: will pure petrol come from your father's house? This statement sparked significant controversy during the inauguration ceremony of new flight services from Rewa to Bhopal and Kolkata on Sunday. Mishra emphasized that India produces only 20% of its crude oil, with the remaining 80% being imported, citing the ongoing global turmoil due to conflicts between the US and Iran. He pointed out that oil supply ships travel an additional distance of approximately 18,000 kilometers. He criticized a campaign suggesting that ethanol would not work, questioning where pure petrol would originate if it is not available in the country.
Ethanol Viability in India
The BJP MP asserted that vehicles in India can operate on ethanol blending. He referenced Brazil, where cars run entirely on 100% ethanol without issues. Mishra questioned the source of petrol and diesel if ethanol production ceases, highlighting Brazil as the world's largest ethanol producer, which allows its vehicles to run solely on this fuel. His comments come at a time when the central government faces criticism regarding the ethanol blending policy, with the Congress party repeatedly targeting the government, claiming that only ethanol producers benefit while the middle-class Indian consumer is deprived of choices.
Government's Defense of Ethanol Policy
Despite the backlash, the government has defended its stance, stating there is no evidence indicating that E20 petrol causes unusual wear and tear, rust, or reduces vehicle lifespan. In a previous written response in Parliament, the government noted that E20 fuel offers higher octane levels, improved anti-knock performance, better combustion efficiency, smooth acceleration, and lower emissions, resulting in cleaner and more efficient engine operation. Bihar Congress spokesperson Asit Nath Tiwari remarked that neither he nor his predecessors promised to provide petrol at 35 rupees per liter, accusing the current government of exploiting the nation in the name of petrol. He suggested that those who made such promises should be held accountable for demanding pure petrol.