Congress seeks review of E20 policy, non-ethanol petrol options
The Congress party has called for an immediate review of the government's E20 ethanol-blending policy, citing concerns over rising food prices and vehicle performance. They argue that diverting foodgrains and sugarcane for fuel is causing inflation in essential commodities.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the tension between national green energy goals and the immediate economic impact on food security and consumer costs.
The Congress on Friday (August 21, 2026) demanded an immediate review of the Centre’s E20 policy and sought the provision of non-ethanol petrol options, saying consumers were being forced to pay the price through higher food and transport costs.
In a post on X, Congress communications chief Jairam Ramesh said the diversion of sugarcane and foodgrains for ethanol production was contributing to higher prices of food items, while vehicles not designed for 20% ethanol blending faced concerns relating to mileage and compatibility.
मोदी सरकार की अदूरदर्शी और जनविरोधी E20 नीति के कारण एक तरफ महंगाई बढ़ती जा रही है और दूसरी तरफ वाहन मालिक कम माईलेज और खराब होते वाहनों के रूप में मार झेलने पर मजबूर हैं। इसका खामियाज़ा जनता सड़क पर और रसोई में, दोनों तरफ से भुगत रही है। स्वाभाविक था कि गन्ने और अनाज को एथेनॉल… pic.twitter.com/mbaiIYMTgL
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