Lagatar24 Desk
Nagpur: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has dismissed allegations against him regarding the ethanol blending policy, saying they are driven by a powerful import lobby upset with his decisions. Speaking at an event, Gadkari stressed that he avoids responding to such criticism directly, as it only fuels unnecessary publicity.
Import Lobby Pressure
Gadkari explained that the government’s policy of blending 20% ethanol with petrol has significantly reduced fossil fuel imports, hurting vested interests that previously benefitted from a ₹22 lakh crore fuel import economy. “The tree that bears fruit is the one that gets pelted with stones,” he remarked, adding that those whose fossil fuel businesses are impacted are resorting to accusations and paid news campaigns.
Environmental And Economic Benefits
The minister highlighted ethanol’s advantages, both economically and environmentally, citing his own car which runs entirely on ethanol derived from agricultural produce. “I have never taken a single rupee from any contractor,” he added. Gadkari also reiterated that the policy promotes self-reliance while reducing dependence on costly fuel imports.
Focus On CIAN Agro Industries
Political discussions have recently focused on CIAN Agro Industries, a company linked to Gadkari’s son, Nikhil Gadkari. The firm, engaged in ethanol production, has seen a meteoric rise in revenue—from ₹17.47 crore in Q1 FY 2023-24 to ₹510.8 crore in April-June 2025. Its profits crossed ₹52 crore, while its stock price surged from ₹172 a year ago to ₹2,023 on the BSE. Analysts, however, caution that the growth is not solely driven by ethanol sales but also by diversification into new businesses and other income streams.
