NEW DELHI: The Centre has set up an inter-ministerial team to counter online misinformation surrounding E20 fuel, following recent protests against ethanol blending. The initiative brings together officials from the ministries of Information and Broadcasting, Road Transport and Highways, Heavy Industries, and Petroleum, along with vehicle manufacturers, dealers, testing agencies, oil marketing companies and fuel pump operators.
The ministries are also establishing Quick Response Teams (QRTs) to identify and flag misleading or false content related to E20 fuel on digital platforms.
Officials said the coordinated effort is aimed at both tackling the spread of misinformation and disseminating scientifically backed information on ethanol-blended fuel. The campaign is targeting younger social media users as well as vehicle owners through fact-based communication, user testimonials, and assurances from automobile manufacturers and oil marketing companies.
According to officials, this is one of the few instances in which multiple ministries are working together on a unified public communication strategy, rather than responding independently. Besides rebutting claims against E20, the campaign will highlight research findings and practical user experiences to build public confidence.
The government has accorded high priority to countering campaigns against ethanol blending and calls to revert to E0 (pure petrol), amid efforts by some organisations and political groups to mobilise public opinion. On Saturday, Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal is scheduled to hold a town hall in Delhi opposing E20 fuel, while activist Tehseen Poonawalla has announced a silent march and hunger strike on the issue.
