BJP MP Janardan Mishra Defends E20 Petrol Blending Policy

Bharatiya Janata Party MP Janardan Mishra defended the Indian government's E20 ethanol-blending policy during an event to inaugurate new flight services from Rewa to Bhopal and Kolkata on Sunday. Mishra criticized opponents of the 20 percent ethanol target, rhetorically asking if pure petrol would "come from your father's house."

Mishra argued that the policy is essential for energy security, noting that India produces only 20 percent of its oil domestically and imports the remaining 80 percent. He cited geopolitical disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and actions by the Houthis as factors that force oil tankers to travel an additional 18,000 kilometers, increasing import costs. To support the policy's safety, he pointed to Brazil's use of 100 percent ethanol and claimed that automobile experts and mechanics believe ethanol does not harm vehicle engines.

The Indian National Congress condemned the remarks. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate accused Mishra of arrogance and claimed that E20 fuel is ruining people's vehicles. The controversy highlights ongoing public debate regarding vehicle compatibility and fuel efficiency as the government continues to promote the E20 target to reduce crude oil dependency.