India, July 10 -- The Centre has issued a detailed clarification on E20 petrol, addressing public concerns over fuel prices, mileage, engine compatibility and ethanol blending more than a year after the nationwide rollout of the fuel.

The clarification comes amid renewed debate following a recent survey that found 66 percent of owners of petrol vehicles manufactured before 2023 reported a decline of more than 10 percent in fuel efficiency since early 2025.

Responding to the discussion, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said the ethanol blending programme has been developed over more than two decades and is primarily aimed at strengthening India's energy security rather than reducing retail fuel prices.

'A gradual process'

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