GK: Why is Kerosene Blue? Most People Are Unaware of This Fact
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Mystery Solved: Why Kerosene is Blue and Its Role in Curbing Illegal Trade
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News18•02-04-2026, 15:28
Mystery Solved: Why Kerosene is Blue and Its Role in Curbing Illegal Trade
•Kerosene is naturally transparent or light yellow, but market kerosene is deep blue due to dyeing.
•Blue dye (Solvent Blue 35 or Oil Black 35) is added to subsidized kerosene in India to prevent illegal mixing with petrol and diesel.
•The blue color makes it easily identifiable, even when mixed, helping to curb illicit sales and ensure subsidized fuel reaches intended beneficiaries.
•This practice, implemented globally and in India since 1950, is an effective tool against illegal trade, regulated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
•Despite Direct Benefit Transfer, blue dye remains crucial for identification, reflecting an economic, social, and regulatory system.