Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, recently pushed back against allegations surrounding him and ethanol blending. Speaking in Nagpur, he attributed the controversy to a powerful import lobby, suggesting they are displeased with his policy decisions.
Gadkari used a poignant analogy, comparing himself to a “tree that bears fruit” which naturally attracts stones. He stated his policy priorities are clear: championing ethanol blending, transforming farmers into energy producers, and significantly curbing pollution. He firmly believes these initiatives have directly impacted entities with vested interests in traditional fuel imports.
“Previously, an astronomical sum of approximately ₹22 lakh crore was being spent annually on fossil fuel imports,” the Minister revealed. “When their lucrative businesses were disrupted, they became incensed and resorted to propagating ‘paid news’ against me.”
He further emphasized his integrity, asserting, “I have never accepted a single rupee from any contractor, which is precisely why contractors hold me in awe.”
Gadkari reiterated his unwavering commitment to his duties, dismissing the “false allegations” as a common, predictable tactic in the political arena. He confidently stated, “The public understands the truth… I’ve navigated through such situations countless times before.” This controversy particularly highlights CIAN Agro Industries, a company led by his son, Nikhil Gadkari. The firm has drawn scrutiny due to a remarkable spike in profits and revenues coinciding with the BJP-led government’s directive for 20% ethanol blending in petrol.
The company’s revenue skyrocketed from a modest ₹17.47 crore in Q1 FY24 to an impressive ₹510.8 crore in Q1 FY26. Similarly, profits surged from nearly negligible figures to over ₹52 crore, primarily fueled by the ethanol blending boom and strategic expansion into new business ventures.
CIAN Agro’s share price on the BSE also saw a dramatic increase, soaring to ₹2,023 on Monday from just ₹172 a year prior. Financial analysts suggest this exponential growth isn’t solely attributed to ethanol sales, but also encompasses “other income” and the diversification into new enterprises.