Nitin Gadkari Slams Fake Campaign Against Ethanol Blended Petrol: Boosts Farmer Incomes and Cuts Pollution
New Delhi: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari fired back at critics on Thursday, calling out a "paid, politically motivated social media campaign" targeting the government’s ethanol-blended petrol program. He defended the initiative, pointing out how it has boosted farmer incomes and slashed pollution across India.
Speaking at the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) annual convention, Gadkari stressed that all tests prove the 20% ethanol-blended (E20) petrol rollout is safe and effective. "There’s no issue with E20 fuel—testing agencies confirm it," he said, dismissing recent worries about engine damage or warranty problems.
The minister highlighted the big wins for farmers. Ethanol production from sugarcane, maize, and rice has driven up crop prices, putting more money in farmers’ pockets. Take maize, for example: Farmers earned a whopping Rs 45,000 crore thanks to higher demand after the government allowed it for ethanol blending. This ethanol blending program has directly supported sugarcane farmers and cut India’s oil imports, saving billions.
Gadkari also praised its role in fighting pollution. He noted how high pollution levels are shaving years off people’s life expectancy, based on recent studies. The ethanol push even grabbed attention at the G20 conference, showing the world recognizes India’s success in cleaner fuels.
Adding weight to his defense, the Supreme Court recently dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) challenging E20 fuel’s safety and legality. The petition claimed most Indian vehicles couldn’t handle it, leading to risks like material wear, safety issues, lower mileage, and insurance denials. But the court backed the government, emphasizing benefits for farmers and reduced oil dependency.
Gadkari urged the auto industry to share the perks of the vehicle scrapping policy with buyers. "Offer discounts on new cars—it’ll cut pollution, boost sales, and help manufacturers," he said. He also cheered a recent GST cut on automobiles as a "gift from the Prime Minister," predicting it will supercharge the sector.
India’s auto industry has climbed from seventh to third globally, Gadkari added, crediting the push toward Atmanirbhar Bharat—self-reliant India. This growth underscores the strength of the country’s manufacturing drive, making cleaner fuels like E20 a key part of the story.
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