Nitin Gadkari Says, Nothing Gains From Ethanol Policy, Allegations ‘Baseless’

personally profits from the government’s ethanol-blending policy, calling them “baseless”.

In a recent interview,  to National TV he stated that his direct stake in ethanol production is just 0.07%, and dismissed claims that E20 fuel damages vehicle engines as fake news.

 Minister Gadkari on Wednesday hit back at critics of the Centre’s ethanol-blending programme, insisting the policy has not harmed a single vehicle and dismissing conflict-of-interest allegations against him as baseless

Speaking to India Today, Gadkari said his family’s sugar business existed long before the ethanol policy came into being and that his personal stake in ethanol production was negligible. “I gain nothing from the ethanol policy. My share in ethanol production is just 0.07%. With such a small stake, there is no question of any significant financial benefit,” he said.

He noted India produces nearly 1,500 crore litres of ethanol annually across roughly 550 units, of which his share remains minuscule. “The charge that I framed the ethanol policy for my own benefit is completely baseless,” he added.

On complaints of vehicle damage, Gadkari asked critics to furnish proof. “If anyone’s vehicle has been damaged because of ethanol, they should file a complaint with the dealer and also with my ministry.

 We will investigate and provide relief,” he said, adding that carmakers including Maruti Suzuki, Toyota, Tata Motors and Mahindra had reported no such issues. He cited a Toyota case where water contamination, not ethanol, was found responsible.

Calling the row politically motivated, Gadkari said countries like the US, Brazil, Japan and Germany already use ethanol blending and India’s programme follows global practice.

Source;India Today

Image; Google