Nitin Gadkari Rejects Ethanol Conflict Claims
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has rejected allegations that his support for ethanol-blended petrol benefits businesses operated by his sons. He described the criticism as politically motivated and said he had no role in ethanol pricing, procurement or company operations.
Gadkari Denies Ethanol Conflict Allegations
Gadkari said ethanol accounts for around 10% of his sons’ overall business and claimed their companies supply less than 0.5% of India’s ethanol. He also stated that the businesses carry debt of approximately ₹1,600 crore.
The minister said the family-owned sugar business existed before the ethanol-blending programme expanded. He added that ethanol procurement is managed by the petroleum ministry, while prices are approved by the Union Cabinet.
The market-share and debt figures were claims made by Gadkari and were not independently substantiated in the interview.
Minister Defends India’s E20 Petrol Programme
Gadkari said India’s ethanol-blending policy began during the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government and continued under the UPA administration. He argued that the programme helps reduce crude oil imports, lower vehicle emissions and generate additional income for farmers.
He said his support extended beyond sugarcane ethanol to fuel produced from maize, rice, agricultural residue and bamboo. Gadkari also pointed to his advocacy for electric vehicles, hydrogen and methanol as part of a broader alternative-fuel strategy.
Gadkari Responds to E20 Mileage Concerns
Addressing concerns about E20 petrol, Gadkari acknowledged that ethanol’s lower energy content could cause a minor reduction in fuel efficiency, particularly during high-speed highway driving. However, he rejected claims that E20 routinely damages vehicle engines.
India has progressively shifted towards petrol blended with 20% ethanol, while newer vehicles are being certified for E20 use. Compatibility and mileage may vary depending on a vehicle’s model and age, making manufacturer guidance important for owners of older vehicles.
