E20 ethanol target raises food vs fuel debate in India

India has achieved the E20 target of blending 20% ethanol in petrol, and discussions are now moving towards higher blends like E27 or E30. Aajtak.in reports that this push is raising a serious 'food vs fuel' question, as ethanol production requires crops like maize and sugarcane, which also serve as food and animal feed. Maize and grains together account for about 67% of ethanol feedstock.

If demand for ethanol crops rises sharply, it could affect land use, water resources, and food prices. Sugarcane, the second major source, is used for both sugar and ethanol, so diverting more cane to fuel may impact sugar output and costs. Water is a key concern, especially in states like Maharashtra and Karnataka where sugarcane farming already strains irrigation supplies.

While higher ethanol blending can reduce crude oil imports and provide farmers an additional market, Aajtak.in notes that the government must balance fuel needs against food security and water availability. The next steps depend on assessing how much additional crop production is sustainable without harming essential supplies.