Ethanol-blending programme: Standards notified for blends up to 30%

Exam-focused facts from the 21 May 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) notified specifications for E22, E25, E27, and E30 fuel blends.
The standards cover the admixture of anhydrous ethanol and motor gasoline for usage in positive ignition engine-powered vehicles.
The government has advanced the deadline for 20 per cent ethanol blending in petrol from 2030 to 2025-26.
The Union government is evaluating the feasibility of higher blends such as E85.
The initiative aims to reduce crude oil imports, support domestic agriculture through increased feedstock demand, and aid emission reduction in the transport sector.