India, July 8 -- In early July 2026, just a few days ago, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas convened a press conference in New Delhi with leaders from the energy industry. Their message was loud and clear - India's petrol now contains 20% ethanol nationwide, the target has been met five years ahead of the original 2030 deadline, and vehicle owners have nothing to worry about.

Ethanol is not a new or experimental automotive fuel. It has been called "fuel of the future".

Ethanol's exceptionally high-octane number (approximately 108 RON) has made it a preferred fuel component for high-performance internal combustion engines. Ethanol has historically been used in several sports cars.

But the social media was aflush with a very diff...