In a candid statement, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari addressed the backlash against the government's push for E20 petrol, attributing the resistance to the influence of the affluent petrol lobby. He emphasized that vested interests were attempting to stall the transition to ethanol-blended fuel. E20, which contains 20% ethanol, began its rollout in April 2023 and was expanded nationwide in April 2025, replacing the previous E10 blend.

Gadkari's remarks came during the 65th annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) in New Delhi. He highlighted the challenges posed by these lobbies in the adoption of cleaner fuels. The E20 initiative aims to reduce India's reliance on imported crude oil and promote sustainable energy sources.

Despite concerns from some consumers and automobile experts about potential decreases in vehicle efficiency, Gadkari defended the ethanol program as part of a broader strategy to enhance energy security and support domestic agriculture. He called for a collective effort to overcome the influence of powerful lobbies and advance the nation's energy independence goals.