India’s ethanol blending programme is one of the country’s most ambitious energy reforms. Its objectives are clear to reduce dependence on imported crude oil, strengthen energy security, lower emissions and create a stable market for farmers. The government deserves credit for pursuing this transition with determination and achieving significant blending targets in a relatively short period. However, the success of any public policy cannot be measured only by production figures or blending percentages. It must also be judged by the confidence it inspires among the people it directly affects. While the economic and environmental benefits of ethanol blending are widely recognised, many consumers continue to question its impact on fuel efficiency, engine performance and long-term maintenance costs. The government frequently cites countries such as Brazil, the United States and Thailand as successful examples of ethanol-blended fuel. Those examples are relevant, but India cannot simply replicate their experience without recognising important differences in consumer awareness, vehicle profiles, regulatory oversight and market conditions. Brazil’s success was built on informed consumer choice. Motorists understand the fuel options available, manufacturers clearly specify vehicle compatibility and accountability is well defined. Consumers are free to select the fuel best suited to their vehicles. India presents a different picture. Consumer awareness is still evolving and most petrol pumps offer only one blended fuel, leaving motorists with little practical choice. More importantly, accountability remains unclear. If consumers believe that ethanol-blended petrol has adversely affected mileage or engine performance, who accepts responsibility the vehicle manufacturer, the........

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