Union Minister Nitin Gadkari brushed aside the mounting allegations that he was personally benefiting from the government’s ethanol-blending initiative, declaring that his wealth comes not from shortcuts but from his intellect. Speaking at an event in Nagpur, Gadkari remarked that his “brain is worth Rs 200 crore a month,” adding that he has “no shortage of money” and earns honestly without resorting to fraud or corruption.
The minister’s comments came in the backdrop of criticism that the ethanol policy favours companies linked to his family, with claims that his sons run businesses tied to the sector. Without naming the controversy directly, Gadkari defended his family’s ventures, clarifying that he only provides them with ideas. He cited his son’s fruit trade as an example, pointing out that while his son recently imported 800 containers of apples from Iran and exported 1,000 containers of bananas to Iran, there were no questionable financial dealings involved. Gadkari also mentioned his ownership of a sugar factory, distillery, and power plant, but insisted these were legitimate enterprises, not vehicles for profiteering.
Emphasising his commitment to local development, Gadkari described how he has advised small traders, including vegetable vendors, to create fruit malls across Nagpur. Such initiatives, he argued, empower farmers and traders to sell directly in prime city locations, enhancing their livelihoods without middlemen. He stressed that his guidance was rooted in promoting entrepreneurship and regional growth, not in personal profit.
Addressing the controversy over E20 petrol, Gadkari dismissed the backlash as part of a politically motivated and paid social media campaign against him. He reiterated that ethanol-blended fuel is safe for vehicles and underscored its benefits, noting that it cuts imports, lowers pollution, and creates new markets for farmers growing crops like maize and sugarcane.
Reaffirming his stance, Gadkari said that neither his family’s ventures nor his public initiatives were about filling his own pockets. “Let me tell you in advance, I am not doing all this for my own earnings, otherwise you may think something else,” he said. “My income is ample. My brain is worth 200 crore per month. I have no shortage of money.”
