New Delhi: Amid the ongoing nationwide debate over ethanol blending (E20) in petrol, a 22-year-old speech by former Union Petroleum Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar has resurfaced and is going viral on social media. In the clip, Aiyar is seen making a light-hearted remark in support of ethanol blending, saying, “Drink less alcohol, we have to mix ethanol in petrol.” The statement dates back to his tenure as Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister in the Manmohan Singh-led government, when the Centre was laying the groundwork for expanding the country’s ethanol blending programme.
What does Mani Shankar Iyer say in the video?
The viral video is part of his speech in Parliament. Iyer says that the government is seriously working on the plan to mix ethanol in petrol and talks have been held with sugar mills for this. He said that if the production of ethanol increases then its share in petrol can also be increased. During this, he said in a light tone that first the consumption of alcohol should be reduced because a large part of ethanol is used in it. This comment is now being shared widely on social media again.
Now why has the debate on ethanol started again?
In recent times, a new debate has started across the country regarding E20 fuel. Some vehicle owners have claimed that petrol with a high ethanol blend can affect the engine and fuel system of older vehicles. On the other hand, the government says that ethanol blending will reduce dependence on crude oil imports, farmers will benefit, and carbon emissions will also be reduced. Amidst this debate, Iyer’s old statement has again come into the limelight.
Why has the matter reached the Supreme Court?
A case related to ethanol policy is currently under consideration in the Supreme Court. During the hearing, the central government told the court that the E20 program is still in the transition and testing phase and its impact is being comprehensively assessed. While issuing notice on the related petition, the court has given instructions to maintain the status quo for the time being.
What is the further plan of the government?
Meanwhile, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that alternative fuel is the need of the future and said that the government is now also promoting a hydrogen-based transport system. According to him, in the coming time, trucks and buses running on hydrogen will also be seen on Indian roads. The government’s emphasis is on reducing dependence on petrol and diesel as well as developing a clean energy-based transportation system.
