BJP MP Defends Ethanol Blending Amid Controversy in India

Controversial Remarks by BJP MP on Ethanol Policy

Rewa (Madhya Pradesh), August 9 - Amid ongoing debates regarding the blending of ethanol in petrol, BJP MP Janardan Mishra from Rewa made headlines on Sunday with a contentious statement defending this policy. Speaking at an event marking the launch of new flight services to Bhopal and Kolkata, Mishra highlighted that India produces only 20% of its crude oil, necessitating the import of 80% from abroad. He pointed out that due to global circumstances, oil supply ships must travel an additional distance of approximately 18,000 kilometers.

He stated, “In such a scenario, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks about blending 20% ethanol in petrol, some individuals start protesting.” In a bold tone, he remarked in Bagheli, “Protests are happening against ethanol, insisting on pure petrol. Where will pure petrol come from? There is no pure petrol in the country, so where will it come from?”

Mishra emphasized that vehicles in India can run on ethanol-blended fuel, yet some individuals oppose its use, claiming it should not be mixed with petrol. He questioned, “If ethanol is not produced, then where will petrol and diesel come from?”

Defending the ethanol blend in petrol, he noted that in Brazil, vehicles operate on 100% ethanol without any issues. He reminded the audience that Brazil is the largest producer of ethanol globally, which is why their vehicles can run entirely on it. Known for his controversial statements, Mishra mentioned that experts in India also agree that ethanol does not harm vehicle engines, yet there is ‘unwarranted opposition’ to its use.

He concluded by stating that today, India boasts the lowest inflation and the highest employment rates globally.