NEW DELHI: Petrol in Delhi would have cost around Rs 125 a litre when global crude prices touched $135 a barrel, had oil companies not blended ethanol into the fuel, the petroleum ministry said on Friday, defending the ethanol programme against claims about its costs, food security impact, and alleged taxpayer subsidy.

The government has defended its ethanol blending program, stating no engine damage has been found. Extensive testing and field experience confirm E20 petrol is safe for vehicles.…

Centre tells Lok Sabha that ‘legacy vehicles’ face no significant impact from E20, says biofuel helped cushion consumers from global oil price spike.