The Central Government has categorically dismissed reports suggesting that it is considering blending ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), describing such claims as “completely false and irresponsible.” The clarification came amid speculation over a possible expansion of India’s ethanol blending programme beyond petrol, with the government stating that no proposal exists to introduce ethanol blending in aviation fuel or diesel.
In an official statement, the government emphasised that India’s ethanol blending initiative is currently limited to petrol under the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme, which has achieved the nationwide rollout of E20 fuel. Authorities said any suggestion that ethanol would be mixed with ATF is incorrect and could create unnecessary concerns regarding aviation safety.
The clarification follows public claims that the Centre was planning to extend ethanol blending to aviation fuel and diesel. Rejecting the allegations, the government urged citizens and media organisations to avoid circulating unverified information, reiterating that aviation fuel standards are governed by stringent technical and safety regulations.
The government maintained that its biofuel strategy remains focused on increasing ethanol blending in petrol to enhance energy security, reduce crude oil imports and support farmers through higher demand for ethanol feedstocks. It reiterated that any future changes to fuel standards would be undertaken only after comprehensive technical evaluation and regulatory approval, and that there is presently no proposal to blend ethanol with Aviation Turbine Fuel.
