Agartala, 12th July 2026: The Tripura Pradesh Congress has raised concerns over the Centre’s ethanol-blended petrol policy, questioning its economic, environmental and social implications while demanding greater transparency from the government.
In a statement issued by Pradesh Congress spokesperson Prabir Chakraborty, the party said it supports environmental protection, alternative energy sources and farmers’ development, but argued that such policies should not place an additional financial burden on ordinary citizens.
The Congress stated that the Union government has projected ethanol blending as a key component of India’s future energy strategy, claiming that it would reduce crude oil imports, save foreign exchange, lower pollution and increase farmers’ income. However, the party questioned whether the benefits of lower ethanol production costs were reaching consumers or were primarily benefiting private companies.
“If ethanol is cheaper than petrol, why are consumers not seeing a corresponding reduction in fuel prices?” the statement asked, demanding a transparent explanation from the government regarding pricing and benefits.
The party also expressed concerns over the compatibility of existing vehicles with higher ethanol blends. It cited discussions among automobile experts, environmental groups and industry stakeholders regarding possible impacts on engine components, fuel efficiency and long-term vehicle performance. The Congress said many users have reported reduced mileage after using ethanol-blended fuel and urged the government to address these concerns scientifically.
Referring to earlier observations by the NITI Aayog, the Congress said adequate infrastructure, appropriate technology and vehicle compatibility were considered essential for ethanol blending. It questioned the urgency behind expanding the policy before all necessary preparations were completed.
The party also raised concerns over food security and water resources, arguing that large-scale diversion of agricultural land for ethanol production could have long-term consequences. It said agricultural economists, environmental experts and farmers’ organisations should be consulted before expanding the programme further.
Highlighting environmental concerns, the Congress referred to complaints from some areas regarding pollution linked to ethanol industries. It mentioned allegations related to industrial pollution in Byrnihat, Meghalaya, including concerns raised in investigative reporting about industrial units such as Umiam Distillation Pvt. Ltd. The party said allegations of pollution, impact on farmland and groundwater contamination should be independently investigated rather than ignored.
The statement also questioned the transparency surrounding ethanol procurement and alleged that the government had not publicly disclosed company-wise ethanol purchases, prices and quantities. The Congress demanded that such information be made available in the interest of public accountability.
The party further raised questions over the role of Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari in promoting ethanol blending, citing reports about his family’s association with ethanol-related businesses. The Congress said the government should clarify any possible conflict-of-interest concerns to maintain public trust.
Pradesh Congress said it was not against renewable energy, ethanol production or farmer welfare, but insisted that any energy policy must balance environmental goals with consumer interests and economic fairness.
The party has demanded that the Central government publish a comprehensive white paper on the economic, environmental and technological impact of ethanol-blended petrol, make expert assessments public and conduct a transparent national discussion involving scientists, environmentalists, farmers, automobile experts, consumer groups and political parties.
“Energy policies affecting millions of citizens must be made through consultation and transparency, not by ignoring public concerns,” the statement said.
