India adopts E20 nationwide and signals a move toward E27, achieving the target five years early and joining Brazil, the US and Europe in ethanol blending
E20 reduces lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and cuts crude imports, delivering large foreign exchange savings and substantial CO2 reductions
Most Indian vehicles are calibrated for E10; the abrupt E20 rollout has raised consumer concerns about mileage and performance
Automakers initially warned of retrofits and parts changes. Many now downplay impacts, but consumer uncertainty persists
Rising biofuel demand has raised maize prices, strained feed markets and risks diverting land from millets and oilseeds
Policy should phase fuel choices and support vehicle compatibility, promote residue and waste based ethanol, and protect regional water and food security