India’s economic adviser calls for return of lower ethanol fuel blend

India's Chief Economic Adviser V Anantha Nageswaran has proposed a return to lower ethanol fuel blends, following widespread consumer discontent with the government's decision to mandate E20 petrol nationwide since April 1. E20, which contains 20% ethanol, has raised concerns over vehicular performance and damage to auto parts, leading many car owners to express frustration on social media.

Nageswaran and co-author Akash Poojari argue in an opinion piece for the Indian Express that a lower ethanol blend like E10, alongside the option for E20, would mitigate public concern. They emphasize that their views are personal and note that it is uncommon for top Indian officials to publicly dissent from government stances. The government, however, maintains there are no plans to revert to lower ethanol blends.

The opinion piece also addresses concerns about engine damage from E20, noting that evidence does not support these fears, but older vehicles with non-ethanol-rated seals pose a separate issue that would take years to retrofit.