"My brain is worth Rs 200 crore, I know how to earn with honesty," says Nitin Gadkari amid Ethanol allegations

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari brushed aside allegations of personal gain from the government's ethanol initiative, saying that he earns honestly and claimed his intellect is worth Rs 200 crore per month.

Nitin Gadkari clarifies ethanol  push is for farmers, not personal gain

“You think I am doing this for money? I know how to earn with honesty. I am not a wheel-dealer,” Gadkari said while addressing an event organised by the Agricos Welfare Society in Nagpur, as reported by News18.

He said that it was intended to benefit farmers, not for personal gain.

The national push for ethanol blending has drawn both praise for reducing emissions and criticism over its impact on food security, water resources, and vehicle compatibility.

Nitin Gadkari warned that “Politicians often exploit divisions for their own benefit, warning that backwardness has become a political tool.”

“I too have a family and a home. I am not a saint—I am a politician. But I have always believed that the nearly 10,000 farmer suicides in Vidarbha are a matter of deep shame. Our efforts will continue until farmers achieve prosperity,” he added.

His comments follow the Supreme Court’s September 1 dismissal of a public interest litigation (PIL) for mandatory availability of ethanol-free petrol (E0) at all fuel stations. The Centre had opposed it, calling it an attempt to undermine national policy.

India introduced 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20) nationwide in April 2023, achieving its target five years ahead of schedule. While the government states that it is a crucial step to lower carbon emissions and reduce crude imports, critics, including automobile experts and consumers, have flagged risks to vehicle efficiency and durability.

The petition was filed by Akshay Malhotra, so that ethanol-free petrol was available alongside blended fuel, mandating clear labelling of ethanol content, and to commission a study on its mechanical impact. Senior advocate Shadan Farasat, representing the petitioner, said it was not to oppose blending itself but to protect consumer choice.

He argued that only vehicles manufactured after April 2023 are fully compliant with E20 petrol, while older models face mechanical damage and higher maintenance costs without access to E0 or E10.

According to MoneyControl, Attorney General R. Venkataramani, however, countered that the plea represented vested interests attempting to derail India’s clean-fuel transition, describing the petitioner as a “name-lender.”

Dismissing the case, the Supreme Court stated there was “sufficient clarity” on ethanol policy and no evidence to suggest E20 fuel was harmful to engines, consumers, or farmers.

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