Goa, June 30 -- The Central Government informed the Supreme Court on Tuesday that India's 20% ethanol blending (E20) programme remains an ongoing experiment, with its full impact expected to become clear by next year. The statement came amid growing concerns that higher ethanol content in petrol could affect older vehicles and reduce fuel efficiency.

During the hearing, the government defended its ethanol blending policy, arguing that there is no conclusive scientific evidence proving E20 petrol causes mechanical damage to vehicles. It maintained that the initiative is aimed at strengthening India's energy security, reducing dependence on imported crude oil, supporting farmers, and lowering carbon emissions.

The government acknowledged ...