Balanced
Push ethanol, but keep it in the mix
India, due to US-Israel conflict and oil import concerns, is promoting higher ethanol blends (E85, E100) to cut foreign oil dependence in transport. The author supports regulatory changes but urges a rigorous life-cycle assessment. Key concerns include ecological impacts like groundwater depletion, land use, and food security from increased crop cultivation. Potential pricing conflicts, risks of importing GMO maize, and transport emissions also warrant scrutiny. A comprehensive 360-degree assessment is crucial for achieving energy independence and reducing the transport sector's carbon footprint effectively.
Economic Times · ET Bureau · May 6, 2026 at 5:41 PM