Gadkari Defends Ethanol Blending Program, Says No Vehicle Damage Complained
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari defended the Centre's ethanol-blending program at the Bihar Investor Summit 2026, stating that there have been no widespread complaints of vehicle damage. He challenged anyone to come forward with evidence of a damaged vehicle, claiming that leading automobile manufacturers had tested vehicles on higher ethanol blends without any issues.
Gadkari emphasized that the policy aims to reduce dependence on conventional fuel and promote diversification in agriculture by creating demand for farm produce. He noted that farmers would no longer be just 'food producers' but also 'energy producers,' with the Centre's decision to promote corn-based ethanol generating additional earnings of up to Rs 45,000 crore for farmers in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
The minister highlighted efforts to develop alternative fuels from agricultural waste, including aviation fuel made from rice straw. He praised Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary's leadership and encouraged businesses to invest in Bihar, citing the state's potential to broaden its economic base through sectors like tourism.