‘Will pure petrol come from your father’s house’: BJP MP defends ethanol blend

BJP MP Janardan Mishra from Rewa sparked debate during an inauguration event for new flight services linking Rewa with Bhopal and Kolkata on Sunday. Mishra addressed concerns surrounding the government’s ethanol-blending policy in petrol, questioning critics of the initiative. “Will pure petrol come from your father's house?” he asked, challenging those opposed to the policy. Mishra noted that India produces just 20% of the crude oil it consumes, with the rest being imported. Mishra highlighted the logistical challenges faced by oil shipments to India, stating that vessels must travel an extra 18,000 kilometers compared to other regions. He linked this to the broader geopolitical context, suggesting that the government’s push to blend 20% ethanol into petrol has drawn criticism. Mishra pointed to a growing movement arguing that ethanol is ineffective and that pure petrol should be used instead. He questioned the feasibility of obtaining pure petrol, asking, “If there's no pure petrol in the country, where will it come from?” Mishra asserted that Indian vehicles can function effectively with ethanol-blended fuel, dismissing opposition claims that ethanol harms engine performance. He referenced Brazil as a model, noting that the country is the world’s largest ethanol producer and that its vehicles operate on 100% ethanol without issues. Mishra emphasized that Indian experts agree ethanol does not damage vehicle engines, calling the resistance to the policy “unnecessary.” The MP, known for his past controversial statements, also highlighted economic indicators, asserting that India currently experiences the lowest inflation and highest employment rates globally. This statement appeared to underscore his argument that the ethanol policy aligns with national interests. During the event, Mishra’s comments were met with mixed reactions. Supporters praised his bold stance, viewing it as necessary to address energy security and reduce reliance on foreign imports. Critics, however, accused him of oversimplifying complex issues and downplaying potential environmental and technical drawbacks of ethanol blending. Some observers noted that while ethanol can replace part of fossil fuels, its production often requires substantial water and land resources, which could affect food security and biodiversity. The ethanol-blending policy has been a contentious issue since its introduction. Proponents argue that it reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports domestic agriculture by creating demand for ethanol. Opponents, including some industry representatives and environmental groups, claim that the policy may not deliver promised benefits and could lead to higher costs for consumers. Mishra’s remarks reflect a broader political divide, with lawmakers and activists offering conflicting perspectives on the impact of ethanol on the economy and environment. As the debate continues, the government faces pressure to balance energy security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. With ethanol blending set to increase in the coming years, the discussion around its effectiveness and implications is likely to intensify. Mishra’s public challenge to critics underscores the high stakes involved in shaping India’s energy future.