India, July 12 -- As India accelerates its transition to E20 fuel, the ethanol blending programme has become the subject of intense debate. Its proponents argue that the initiative is backed by rigorous testing and global experience, is critical to strengthening India's energy security, and boosting farmers' incomes. Critics, however, allege that the policy is being pushed despite concerns over reduced fuel efficiency, reports of engine-related issues and questions over potential conflicts of interest

Ethanol blending is not an idea born of political convenience. It is a journey India began in 2001, and one I have championed ever since as a scientifically proven, internationally accepted programme. It was never an experiment conducted on...