E20 petrol row: Bring back lower blend of ethanol fuel at pumps, says CEA Nageswaran

Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has called for the government to consider reintroducing petrol with a lower percentage of ethanol, amid concerns on the impact of E20 petrol on vehicles.E20, which contains 20% ethanol, was introduced nationwide last year. Since April 1, it has been the sole petrol variant available at fuel stations across the country, as part of the government’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported oil and address pollution.In a column in the Indian Express, V Anantha Nageswaran said, “Restoring a lower blend at the pumps, say, E10, alongside the option to buy E20, would calm most public concern.”This is the first public call by a top official for greater choice in fuel blends as opposition to the policy grows among consumers.The article was jointly written with Akash Poojari, a consultant with India's Department of Economic Affairs. Both authors clarified that the views expressed were personal.