Government Mandates E20 Petrol with Minimum 95 RON Across India from April 1, 2026
Ethanol-Blended Petrol to Be Sold Nationwide with Higher Octane Standard
New Delhi, February 25: The central government has mandated the sale of petrol blended with up to 20 per cent ethanol, carrying a minimum Research Octane Number of 95, across all states and Union Territories from April 1, 2026.In a notification dated February 17, the oil ministry directed oil marketing companies to supply ethanol-blended motor spirit with ethanol content of up to 20 per cent, in line with Bureau of Indian Standards specifications, and with a minimum RON of 95. The directive applies nationwide, although the government has retained the power to grant exceptions in special circumstances, for specific regions, and for limited periods.
Why E20 Petrol and 95 RON Matter
The move strengthens India’s push toward cleaner and more self-reliant fuel systems. Ethanol, produced from sugarcane, maize, and other grains, is renewable and domestically sourced. It burns cleaner than conventional petrol and supports the country’s efforts to reduce crude oil imports and emissions.The blending programme also provides an economic boost to farmers by increasing demand for sugarcane, maize, and agricultural surplus.
The insistence on a minimum Research Octane Number of 95 is aimed at safeguarding engine performance. RON measures a fuel’s resistance to engine knocking, which occurs when fuel ignites unevenly inside the engine, leading to a pinging sound, reduced power, and potential long-term damage.
A higher RON indicates better resistance to knocking. Ethanol naturally has a high octane rating of around 108 RON, and blending 20 per cent ethanol into petrol enhances knock resistance.
Vehicle Compatibility and Impact
Most vehicles manufactured in India between 2023 and 2025 are designed to operate on E20 fuel, and no major operational issues are expected in these models.However, older vehicles may experience a slight reduction in mileage, estimated between 3 per cent and 7 per cent. There may also be gradual wear in certain rubber and plastic components not originally designed for higher ethanol content.
Faster Ethanol Blending Rollout
India achieved 10 per cent ethanol blending in petrol in June 2022, five months ahead of its target. Encouraged by this progress, the government advanced the 20 per cent blending target to 2025-26 from the earlier 2030 deadline.Most petrol pumps across the country now supply E20 fuel or petrol blended with 20 per cent ethanol.
According to the oil ministry, since 2014-15, petrol substitution through ethanol blending has helped India save more than Rs 1.40 lakh crore in foreign exchange, reinforcing the economic case for accelerated adoption.
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