India, July 12 -- Experts say the E-20 rollout success will depend on balancing energy security, farmer interests and vehicle compatibility.

India's ambitious ethanol-blended petrol programme has emerged as one of the country's flagship energy initiatives, aimed at reducing dependence on imported crude oil, cutting greenhouse gas emissions and creating additional income opportunities for farmers. While the rollout of higher ethanol blends marks a significant step in India's clean energy transition, experts say the long-term success of the programme will depend on addressing concerns related to vehicle compatibility, water consumption and sustainable feedstock choices.

The government has steadily expanded ethanol blending under the Ethan...