Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday hit back at critics of the government’s ethanol-blended petrol programme, saying he has a “mind of Rs 200 crore per month” and has no shortage of money.
Addressing an event organised by Agricos Welfare Society in Nagpur, Gadkari said, “My brain is worth 200 crore per month. I have absolutely no shortage of money and I don’t stoop down. I know how to earn honestly.”
His remarks came amid criticism of the implementation of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20). Critics allege that ethanol-blended petrol could damage vehicles, reduce fuel economy, and worsen water shortages. Questions were also raised about ethanol companies linked to Gadkari’s family.
I Advise My Sons But Do Not Indulge in Fraud: Gadkari
Without directly referring to the controversy, the minister said that he gives suggestions to his sons but does not engage in fraud.
“I give suggestions to my sons but do not do fraud. Recently, my son imported 800 containers of apples from Iran and exported 1,000 containers of bananas from India to Iran. My son does import-export business. I also have a sugar mill, a distillery and a power plant. I am not doing any experiments in agriculture for personal gain,” Gadkari said.
Criticism of Ethanol-Blended Petrol Politically Motivated: Gadkari
Earlier on Thursday, dismissing the online debate on E20 fuel as a “politically motivated social media campaign”, Gadkari said the ethanol programme has increased farmers’ incomes while reducing pollution. Citing the example of maize alone, he said farmers have collectively earned Rs 45,000 crore due to increased demand from ethanol production.
No Problem In Using E20 fuel:Â Gadkari
At the annual conference of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in Delhi last week, Gadkari said all testing agencies have confirmed that there is no problem in using E20 fuel. He said the blended fuel has reduced oil imports, helped sugarcane farmers and has been appreciated globally, including at the G20 summit.
Engine Damage Due To Ethanol-Blended Petrol False:Â Gadkari
Gadkari noted that recent fears over engine damage and warranty issues had been proven false. “All testing agencies have confirmed there is no problem with implementation,” he said.
Supreme Court On Ethanol-Blended PetrolÂ
Recently, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a PIL challenging the nationwide rollout of 20% ethanol-blended petrol (E20). The apex court rejected claims that the fuel would harm vehicles or affect insurance coverage, and upheld the government’s position that the policy is beneficial for both farmers and the environment.