NAGPUR: Facing allegations of personal gain tied to the government’s ethanol-blended petrol initiative, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari rejected the accusations, asserting that his “brain is worth 200 crore a month” and he earns his income through honest means, not fraud.

“I earn 200 crore a month with my intellect. I know how to make money legitimately,” Gadkari stated at a Nagpur event, emphasizing that he has no financial scarcity.

The government is promoting ethanol as a cost-effective, eco-friendly fuel alternative, but critics have raised concerns about its effects on food and water security, vehicle safety, and consumer choice. Allegations have also surfaced that Gadkari’s sons operate two major ethanol companies.

Without directly addressing the controversy, Gadkari explained that he advises his sons on lawful business activities. “I guide my sons with ideas, but I don’t engage in fraudulent practices,” he said.

He cited an example, noting that his son recently imported 800 containers of apples from Iran and exported 1,000 containers of bananas to Iran, operating within a barter system due to no direct monetary transactions with Iran. Gadkari added that he owns a sugar factory, distillery, and power plant but clarified that his involvement in agriculture is not for personal profit.

The minister also discussed his efforts to support local entrepreneurs, such as encouraging vegetable vendors to set up fruit malls in Nagpur to enable direct sales by traders and farmers in prime city areas.

“I’m not doing this for personal gain, or you might misunderstand. My income is sufficient. My brain earns 200 crore a month, and I have no shortage of funds,” Gadkari reiterated, stressing that his business advice aims to foster development, not personal profit.

Addressing criticism of E20 petrol, Gadkari dismissed claims of a “paid” and “politically motivated” social media campaign against him, affirming the fuel’s safety.

The government maintains that E20 petrol serves as an import substitute, reduces costs, lowers pollution, and supports farmers by increasing demand for crops like maize.