The recent debate about India’s E20 petrol supply to Bhutan escalated after conflicting media reports created confusion. Critics claimed that Indian Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) offered E20 petrol to Bhutan, yet officials from India’s Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry clarified this claim.
Official Clarification from Indian Authorities
The Ministry emphasized that no Indian OMC ever formally proposed exporting E20 petrol to Bhutan. Moreover, no official documentation for such supply existed. Consequently, the ministry questioned the accuracy of the Bhutanese publication’s report.
Bhutan’s Response and Technical Concerns
Editor Tenzing Lamsang defended his story on social media, sharing a written response from Bhutan’s Trade Department. The department confirmed it did not import E20 fuel from India. They highlighted that ethanol-blended fuel absorbs moisture easily, which could contaminate fuel quality. Additionally, the department explained that their underground storage tanks cannot safely store ethanol-blended fuels, prompting requests for continued traditional petrol supply during technical meetings with Indian OMCs.
The Role of the Controversial Letter
The Bhutanese report referenced a government letter instructing Indian suppliers to maintain conventional petrol supply. In contrast, the Indian Petroleum Ministry reiterated that no E20 petrol export proposal was made or formally drafted. The ministry urged reliance solely on official statements from the government and OMCs.
Impact on Domestic E20 Program
Meanwhile, India’s E20 ethanol-blending initiative remains under review, and the controversy has amplified public scrutiny. Reports suggesting Bhutan rejected E20 fuel offers were declared incorrect by the ministry, reinforcing that India’s program continues independently.
Government Advisory and Public Guidance
The Ministry issued a press note stating that all official information must be sourced from the Petroleum Ministry and OMCs. Citizens, media, and stakeholders should avoid relying on unverified claims. Government authorities reassured that no formal export of E20 petrol to Bhutan has occurred, clarifying misinterpretations in the public domain
