New Delhi, July 10 -- Responding to concerns over why consumers are not being offered a choice between pure petrol, E10 and E20 fuel, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said maintaining multiple petrol grades across India's vast fuel distribution network would create major operational and logistical challenges.

The Ministry said India's shift towards E20 was part of a planned transition after extensive consultations with automobile manufacturers, testing agencies and other stakeholders. It added that the decision was based on technical evaluations covering vehicle compatibility, engine performance, emissions and fuel efficiency.

Addressing the demand for separate availability of pure petrol, E10 and E20 at fuel stations, the Mini...