Nitin Gadkari Brushes Off Ethanol Allegations, Says His “Intellect Worth ₹200 Crore a Month”

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has hit back at critics linking him to alleged personal gains from the government's ethanol drive. At a public event in Nagpur, he struck a confident tone, declaring that he earns honestly and values his intellect alone at ₹200 crore a month.

Allegations and Clarifications

Opponents have accused Gadkari's family of benefitting from the ethanol policy, claiming his sons run two major companies in the sector. Without naming the critics, Gadkari dismissed the claims as misleading. He admitted that he advises his sons in business matters but insisted their ventures-such as exporting 1,000 containers of bananas to Iran and importing apples from the same country-are completely legitimate.

He also pointed out his ownership of a sugar factory, distillery, and power plant, while underlining that these are not designed for personal agricultural benefit.

A Push for Local Enterprise

Turning the focus away from controversy, Gadkari shared how he encourages grassroots entrepreneurship. In Nagpur, he urged fruit and vegetable vendors to create fruit malls in prime city areas, cutting out middlemen and boosting farmers' income. According to him, such projects show his commitment to community development rather than private enrichment.

Ethanol Debate Heats Up

The ethanol program itself has become a flashpoint. The government touts it as a cleaner, cheaper fuel that cuts pollution and reduces India's dependence on imports while helping farmers. But critics warn of risks to food security, water resources, and vehicle safety.

Gadkari dismissed the criticism outright, branding the campaign against E20 petrol as "paid" and "politically motivated." He maintained that the blended fuel is safe and beneficial, and that attacks on him are aimed more at politics than policy.

The Bigger Picture

For Gadkari, the ethanol initiative is about creating opportunities for farmers and entrepreneurs. He insists his personal wealth is secure enough, and that his focus remains on innovation and development-not profit-making.