This paper critically examines the government of india’s push toward achieving 20% ethanol blending (E20) in petrol by 2025–26, a major policy initiative aimed at enhancing energy security, reducing import dependency, and fostering environmental sustainability. It assesses the phased implementation of E20 across indian states, evaluates the readiness of oil marketing companies and automobile manufacturers, and highlights the infrastructural and technical challenges involved. The document also explores the implications for rural livelihoods, especially the agricultural supply chain feeding into ethanol production. By tracing the early rollout in select cities and discussing fuel compatibility and emissions outcomes, the report offers an informed overview of the policy’s transformative potential and bottlenecks. It serves as a valuable resource for stakeholders in energy, agriculture, and climate governance.

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