Congress Demands Review of Controversial E20 Fuel Policy

The Congress party has called for an immediate review of India's E20 policy, which blends ethanol with petrol. The move has led to inflation and vehicle damage, according to Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh.

Ramesh pointed out that diverting sugarcane and grain for ethanol production has caused shortages of these commodities, resulting in a 40% rise in sugar prices over three months. Jaggery prices have increased by 24%, rice by 16%, and maize flour by 11%. The cost of animal feed has also risen by 10.34%.

Ramesh criticized the government's decision to introduce E20 fuel without proper testing, leading to reduced mileage and vehicle damage. He noted that international crude oil prices have dropped, but petrol prices remain unchanged. Rahul Gandhi has been highlighting corruption surrounding the E20 policy, according to Ramesh.

The Congress Working Committee expressed concern over issues such as reduced mileage, risks to vehicle compatibility, limited consumer choices, and environmental damage caused by the E20 policy. The committee flagged concerns over fuel contamination and the environmental costs of diverting sugarcane and maize for ethanol blending.