Source: The Citizen
Nitin Gadkari, the Minister for Road Transport and Highways in India, has robustly defended the country’s ethanol blending initiative, stating that “vested interests” were behind the increasing criticism. He spoke at an event in Nagpur and stated that there are powerful interests that lost business when India reduced fuel imports which have begun to spread “paid news” news reports attacking him.
Ethanol Policy and Benefits
According to Gadkari, India incurs an annual bill of around ₹22 lakh crore due to fossil fuel imports. Ethanol blending can alleviate this import bill, give farmers a new income stream by taking on an energy role, and reduce pollution.
He also said he has never taken money from contractors, which is why some business groups are opposing him.
CIAN Agro Under Investigation
Due to CIAN Agro Industries, a company owned by Gadkari’s son, Nikhil, the controversy has grown even more intense. The revenue of this company increased from ₹17.47 crore in Q1 FY24 to ₹510.8 crore in Q1 FY26, and profits exceeded ₹52 crore. The share price of the company has surged from ₹172 a year ago to more than ₹2,000 currently.
As a result of this expansion, there have been accusations of conflicts of interest. Activist Anjali Damania accused Gadkari’s sons of wrongdoing. Gadkari did not identify Damania by name but indicated that these accusations are politically driven and a result of fuel import lobbies that feel threatened.
Gadkari’s Response
The minister compared himself to a “tree that bears fruit,” saying critics go after him only because he is achieving results in the realization of his policies. He also pointed out that he drives a car that runs on 100% ethanol, demonstrating that it works.
Gadkari mentioned that politics has turned into jealousy, but the people can distinguish between real change and propaganda.
Policy vs Politics
Gadkari has defended an ethanol policy which has called attention — CIAN Agro’s rise is tied to the national interest: reducing imports, improving farmer livelihood, and air quality.
Policies versus Politics
While CIAN Agro’s ascension has sparked public interest, Gadkari asserted that his ethanol policy pertains to the national interest of reducing imports, supporting farmers, and cleaning up the air.
Nonetheless, the family business’s connection to the policy won’t eliminate criticism. Currently, Gadkari seems resolute in forging on with the ethanol push, saying attacks on him are part of a larger battle against entrenched interests.
