Ethanol is Safe: WISMA Supports Center’s Clarification on E20

PUNE – The West Indian Sugar Mills Association (WISMA) has strongly endorsed the Central Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG)’s recent clarification regarding 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20), asserting that ethanol is “Safe, Efficient, and Sustainable.” This move comes as WISMA backs the Ministry’s efforts to address “unfounded concerns” about E20’s impact on vehicles.

According to WISMA, the MoPNG has rightly cited extensive domestic and international research confirming that E20 has no significant adverse effect on engine performance, fuel efficiency, or durability, even in older vehicles. Comprehensive testing conducted by esteemed institutions such as the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), and Indian Oil Corporation (R&D) has reportedly established the mechanical and material compatibility of E20 across a wide range of vehicle types.

In a press release, president B. B. Thombare and Executive Director Ajit Chougule of WISMA, highlighted the significant multi-sectoral benefits of the Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP), which include empowering farmers, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing India’s energy security.

Notable achievements of the EBP, as supported by WISMA, include:

• Environmental Gains: Ethanol blending has contributed to a reduction of over 700 lakh tonnes in carbon dioxide emissions, significantly aiding India’s climate change mitigation goals and international environmental commitments.
• Energy Security: E20 blending has decreased India’s reliance on crude oil imports, resulting in savings of over ₹1.2 lakh crore in foreign exchange since 2014–15.
• Farmer Empowerment: Ethanol production has facilitated payments exceeding ₹1.04 lakh crore to farmers, thereby strengthening rural incomes.

Furthermore, WISMA stated that the EBP has been “pivotal” in making the sugar sector financially self-sustainable. It has ensured timely payments to farmers, reduced dependence on government financial support, and fostered the growth of India’s rural bioeconomy. The Association also emphasized that by promoting the use of indigenous, renewable fuel sources, the program strengthens the nation’s energy self-reliance.

WISMA reaffirms its stance that ethanol blending is a “scientifically validated, economically inclusive, and environmentally responsible initiative.” The association views it as a “cornerstone” of India’s biofuel strategy and rural transformation.

The sugar sector, WISMA stated, remains fully aligned with the national ethanol roadmap and is committed to expanding production capacities for E20 and beyond.