E20 Policy Sparks Controversy as Congress Leader Slams Modi Government

Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has launched a scathing attack on the Central Government over its E20 policy, which blends 20% ethanol with petrol. Ramesh claims that this policy has made both food and travel more expensive for the public.

Ramesh stated that due to the Modi government's 'shortsighted and anti-people' policy, inflation is rising on one hand, while vehicle owners are forced to bear the brunt of lower mileage and deteriorating vehicles. He also alleged that the diversion of sugarcane towards ethanol production has contributed to a rise in sugar and jaggery prices.

Ramesh pointed out that 25 lakh tons of sugar-equivalent sugarcane have gone into ethanol, resulting in a significant increase in prices. Sugar prices have risen from 48 to 67 per kg, while jaggery has increased from 50 to 65 per kg. Rice and corn flour have also become 16% and 11% more expensive, respectively.

The Congress leader questioned why petrol prices have not fallen despite a decline in international crude oil prices and savings claimed from ethanol blending. He also accused the Centre of limiting options for consumers and ignoring environmental concerns.