BJP MP Janardan Mishra from Rewa has defended the Centre's ethanol policy amid ongoing controversy over blending ethanol in petrol. Speaking at an event to inaugurate new flight services from Rewa to Bhopal and Kolkata on Sunday, August 9, 2026, Mishra questioned opponents of the ethanol blending initiative. 'Will pure petrol come from your father's house?' Mishra asked, challenging those who oppose the policy. He emphasized that 'In such a situation, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi talks about blending 20% ethanol in petrol, some people start protesting' and noted that 'A movement is underway claiming that ethanol won't work, pure petrol will. Will pure petrol come from your father's house? If there's no pure petrol in the country, where will it come from?'
Mishra highlighted India's significant dependence on oil imports, stating that India produces only 20% of crude oil while 80% must be imported from abroad. As reported by IANS, he cited the current geo-political situation, claiming that ships have to travel an additional distance of approximately 18,000 km to supply oil. The BJP MP explained that 'On top of that, there is a conflict going on at present, the Strait of Hormuz is closed, and the Houthis have also blocked it, so oil is being obtained after travelling an additional 18,000 kilometres'. This dependency makes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal to blend 20% ethanol in petrol particularly relevant in the current geo-political context.
Mishra emphasized that vehicles in India can run on ethanol blending, yet some people are opposing its use. According to IANS reports, he referenced Brazil as an example, stating that vehicles run on 100% ethanol there with no problems, as Brazil produces maximum ethanol globally. The BJP MP claimed that experts in India also believe ethanol does not harm vehicle engines, yet there is 'unnecessary' opposition to it. He further questioned the logic of those opposing ethanol, stating 'If ethanol is not produced, where will petrol come from, where will diesel come from?' Mishra also confirmed that 'Automobile manufacturers say they have the engines and foresee no issues. India possesses the capability to run vehicles on ethanol. Indian vehicles will run and can run on ethanol'.
Mishra made broader economic claims during his defense of the ethanol policy. As reported by IANS, he stated that if there is any place in the world today where employment is highest, it is in India. The BJP MP, who is known for making controversial comments, made these statements while defending the government's ethanol blending initiative amid ongoing public debate.
