SC refuses to entertain plea against roll-out of 20% ethanol-blended petrol nationwide , Pg10

Key Highlights:

• The Supreme Court dismissed a petition challenging the nationwide roll-out of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20).
• The petition alleged that motorists were being compelled to use fuel unsuited to their vehicles without the option of ethanol-free petrol.
• The Union government defended the ethanol-blending programme as a measure to bolster the income of sugar cane farmers and conserve foreign exchange.
• NITI Aayog’s 2021 report noted that blending ethanol up to 20% could cut fuel efficiency by 6-7% in four-wheelers and 3-4% in two-wheelers.

Detailed Insights:

• The petitioner sought the continued availability of ethanol-free petrol for vehicles manufactured before April 2023, which are not compatible with E20 fuel.
• The Centre questioned the petition's intentions, alleging obstruction of India’s clean fuel transition and the promotion of vested interests.
• E20 fuel has been gradually introduced since 2023, replacing earlier blends such as E5 and E10.
• The ethanol-blending programme is central to India’s strategy to lower carbon emissions and reduce dependence on crude oil imports.
• The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas endorsed the use of E20, claiming it offers better acceleration and improved ride quality.
• The petition argued that the policy violated the fundamental rights of vehicle owners and breached the right to informed consumer choice under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019.
• Concerns were raised that vehicle damage due to ethanol-blended petrol would not be covered by manufacturers or insurance companies.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Ethanol Blending: Mixing ethanol with gasoline to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions.
• E20 Fuel: Petrol containing 20% ethanol, intended to reduce carbon emissions and support sugarcane farmers.
• Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Indian law protecting consumer rights, including the right to informed choices.