Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri responds to growing criticism of ethanol-blended petrol, arguing that concerns around E20 have emerged suddenly despite a gradual rollout and continued use. Puri says E20 has been in use for nearly two years and that ethanol-blended fuels have longer been available in India, citing the phased introduction of E15-plus, E19-plus and then E20. He questions the “coordinated controversy” over higher ethanol content, and points to the timeline of policy steps rather than an abrupt change. Puri also argues that increasing ethanol blending is meant to reduce India’s dependence on imported crude oil, improve energy security and support farmers, while lowering crude import needs and potentially foreign exchange outflows. He adds that the programme aligns with India’s broader clean energy transition goals and says E20 is scientifically validated and internationally accepted. The minister further claims that large numbers of vehicles—he cites more than 200 million two-wheelers and about 2 million four-wheelers—are operating on E20 without major reported problems. He also links the debate to India’s shift toward greater energy self-reliance.