Gadkari calls E20 criticism a paid campaign

Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari called opposition to E20 petrol a paid campaign, saying the controversy had subsided, as the government notified rules allowing specially designed flex-fuel vehicles to use fuel blends of up to E100. Gadkari made the remarks at an event organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry. He said criticism had surged three months earlier but had since quieted, and characterized it as paid activity. The reports provide no evidence identifying who funded or organized the criticism, so the claim remains Gadkari’s characterization. The government’s amendment to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, enables vehicles designed and certified as flex-fuel models to use E85 or E100. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways clarified that the change does not mean ordinary petrol cars or vehicles designed for E20 can use those higher blends. Eligible vehicles must also meet applicable emission and safety requirements. Gadkari defended the use of E19-E20 blends by citing vehicle numbers and the absence of verified widespread engine failures linked to ethanol. He said more than 20 crore two-wheelers and over three crore petrol cars had...