Goa, July 30 -- The Centre on Thursday defended its ethanol blending programme, asserting that extensive testing and large-scale field experience have found no evidence that E20 petrol causes abnormal engine wear, corrosion or reduced vehicle life. The government said the initiative has enhanced India's energy security while protecting consumers from fluctuations in global crude oil prices.

In a written reply in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas Suresh Gopi said the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme was introduced through a phased and scientifically validated process involving NITI Aayog, automobile manufacturers, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI), the Society of Indian Automobile Manuf...