Gadkari Defends Ethanol Blending Policy
Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has hit back at criticism surrounding the government’s E20 petrol blending policy, calling the social media uproar a “paid campaign to politically target me.”
Speaking at the annual convention of the Society of Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Gadkari said that both automobile manufacturers and the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) had already submitted detailed studies showing the benefits of ethanol blending.
“The social media campaign was paid; it was to target me politically. There is no fact in it. Ethanol blending is an import substitute, cost-effective, pollution-free, and indigenous solution,” he said.
Economic And Farmer Benefits
Highlighting the economic impact, Gadkari said India spends massive amounts on fossil fuel imports, and ethanol blending helps reduce this burden. He further added that ethanol is being produced from crops like maize (makka), directly benefiting farmers.
According to Gadkari, farmers have already gained ₹45,000 crore due to the ethanol policy, proving its role in strengthening the rural economy.
Pollution Concerns
On the environmental front, the minister emphasized that ethanol blending is crucial to tackling India’s pollution crisis.
“A report has found that Delhi residents could lose 10 years of life if the current level of pollution continues. The world agrees that pollution must be reduced,” Gadkari stated.
What Is E20 Petrol?
E20 petrol is a blend of 80% petrol and 20% ethanol. The government argues that it reduces carbon emissions, saves foreign exchange, and improves vehicle performance.
While critics claim it lowers fuel efficiency and increases wear and tear in vehicles, the government dismissed these concerns as “misplaced.”
Officials clarified that fuel efficiency depends on multiple factors such as:
Driving habits
Vehicle maintenance (oil changes, air filters, tyre pressure)
Air conditioning load
Road conditions
They further added that vehicles tuned for E20 deliver better acceleration, smoother ride quality, and reduced emissions, making it a game-changer for India’s transport sector.
Bottom Line
Despite ongoing criticism, the government remains firm that E20 petrol is a step toward cleaner air, reduced fossil fuel imports, and higher farmer incomes. Gadkari has made it clear that he views the opposition as politically motivated rather than based on facts.
