Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday challenged critics of ethanol-blended petrol to name a single car that has faced any technical issues due to the blended fuel. Speaking at an event, Gadkari emphasized that ethanol blending has been successfully implemented without any reported problems in vehicles.
Ethanol from corn boosts farmer income
The minister highlighted that since ethanol is surplus in the country, the government's move to produce ethanol from corn has generated an additional income of Rs 45,000 crore for farmers in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. This initiative has not only provided a new revenue stream but also helped in reducing the country's dependence on fossil fuels.
Gadkari stated that the ethanol blending program is part of the government's broader strategy to promote renewable energy and reduce pollution. He noted that the program has been a win-win for farmers, the environment, and the economy.
Critics challenged to provide evidence
Gadkari dared critics to come forward with any concrete evidence of vehicles malfunctioning due to ethanol-blended petrol. He asserted that the technology is mature and that automakers have adapted their engines to run efficiently on blended fuel.
The minister also mentioned that the government is working on increasing the ethanol blending percentage gradually, aiming to reach 20% blending by 2025. This target is expected to further boost farmer incomes and reduce India's oil import bill.
Impact on sugar and corn industries
Ethanol production from corn has provided an alternative market for farmers, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar where corn is a major crop. The additional income of Rs 45,000 crore has been a significant economic boost for these regions.
Gadkari also noted that the sugar industry has benefited from ethanol production, as sugarcane-based ethanol remains a key component of the blending program. The government has been encouraging both sugar mills and distilleries to ramp up ethanol production capacity.
