Nitin Gadkari dismisses social media backlash on ethanol as politically motivated, cites benefits for farmers and economy

Union road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday rejected criticism of India’s 20% ethanol-blended petrol programme, calling the opposition a “paid campaign” driven by vested interests. Speaking at the 65th annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in New Delhi, Gadkari said the social media backlash against ethanol was aimed at targeting him politically.

Defending the government’s policy, Gadkari described ethanol as an “import substitute, cost effective, pollution free and indigenous” fuel. He argued that reducing fossil fuel imports, which currently cost the nation nearly ₹22 lakh crore annually, would bring significant economic and environmental gains while supporting farmers through increased demand for biofuel crops.

The minister’s remarks come days after the Supreme Court dismissed a public interest litigation that sought mandatory availability of ethanol-free petrol at all outlets. The court observed there was no evidence that E20 fuel was harmful to engines, consumers, or farmers, while the centre argued the plea was an attempt to weaken national clean fuel goals.

India rolled out E20 fuel nationwide in April 2023, five years ahead of target, as part of efforts to cut carbon emissions and crude oil dependence. While automobile experts have warned of possible efficiency issues in older vehicles, officials maintain the performance drop is minimal and does not impact safety or insurance validity.