My brain is worth Rs 200 crore: Nitin Gadkari says ethanol push for farmers, not profit

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday took a veiled swipe at his critics, declaring that his brain is worth “Rs 200 crore a month” and insisting he would not “stoop low” for financial gains, as the ethanol policy debate continues to stir controversy.

“You think I am doing this for money? I know how to earn with honesty. I am not a wheel-dealer,” Gadkari said while addressing an event organised by the Agricos Welfare Society in Nagpur, as reported by News18. He stressed that his initiatives were driven by ideas to benefit farmers, not by personal profit.

The remarks came against the backdrop of the national push for ethanol blending, which has drawn both praise for reducing emissions and criticism over its impact on food security, water resources, and vehicle compatibility.

Nitin Gadkari also warned against the politics of division, remarking, “Politicians often exploit divisions for their own benefit, warning that backwardness has become a political tool.”

“I too have a family and a home. I am not a saint—I am a politician. But I have always believed that the nearly 10,000 farmer suicides in Vidarbha are a matter of deep shame. Our efforts will continue until farmers achieve prosperity,” he added.

His comments follow the Supreme Court’s September 1 dismissal of a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought mandatory availability of ethanol-free petrol (E0) at all fuel stations. The Centre had opposed the plea, calling it an attempt to undermine national policy.

India rolled out 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol (E20) nationwide in April 2023, achieving its target five years ahead of schedule. While the government has hailed the programme as a crucial step to lower carbon emissions and reduce crude imports, critics—including automobile experts and consumers—have flagged risks to vehicle efficiency and durability.

The petition, filed by Akshay Malhotra, sought directions to ensure ethanol-free petrol was available alongside blended fuel, mandate clear labelling of ethanol content, and commission a study on its mechanical impact. Senior advocate Shadan Farasat, representing the petitioner, said the aim was not to oppose blending itself but to protect consumer choice.

He argued that only vehicles manufactured after April 2023 are fully compliant with E20 petrol, while older models face mechanical damage and higher maintenance costs without access to E0 or E10.

Attorney General R. Venkataramani, however, countered that the plea represented vested interests attempting to derail India’s clean-fuel transition, describing the petitioner as a “name-lender.”

Dismissing the case, the Supreme Court observed there was “sufficient clarity” on ethanol policy and no evidence to suggest E20 fuel was harmful to engines, consumers, or farmers.