New Delhi, April 20 -- The Centre is planning a nationwide policy push to enable the adoption of flex-fuel vehicles (FFVs) that can run on ethanol blends of up to E85 (85% ethanol and 15% petrol), as the West Asia conflict prompts India to explore ways to cut oil import dependence, according to two people aware of the development and a correspondence reviewed by Mint.

India's current 20% ethanol blending mandate, introduced in 2025, had triggered public complaints over reduced mileage and concerns around engine performance.

The Union petroleum and natural gas ministry has called a meeting on Monday to deliberate on the issue. "During the meeting, a presentation will be made by the working group constituted for preparing the plan for the...