Gadkari Says Petroleum Lobby Resisting Shift to Alternative Fuels Amid Rs 22 Lakh Crore Import Bill

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Friday highlighted the challenges in shifting India’s energy sector towards alternative fuels , noting that the petroleum lobby , with vested interests in the Rs 22 lakh crore fossil fuel import bill , is resisting this transition. Speaking at the IFGE compressed bio-gas conclave in Pune, Gadkari said that the lobby is using “all its might” against his push for green and alternative fuels , despite not having any stake in the sector himself.

Gadkari emphasised that alternative fuels are vital for the country’s energy security , especially in light of the ongoing West Asia crisis , and will boost the rural agriculture economy , reduce pollution , and significantly cut fossil fuel imports . “Becoming self-reliant in energy is essential for realizing India’s dream of a USD 5 trillion economy ,” he added.

Highlighting India’s energy import dependency , Gadkari noted that the country imports 86% of its energy , making the promotion of non-polluting, indigenous fuels crucial. He said there is great potential in green fuels, with 5,000 firms expected to work in this sector in the next few years, provided technology, productivity, and cost-effectiveness meet required standards.

The minister underlined that the objective of promoting green fuels extends beyond environmental benefits; it aims to prosper farmers, generate rural employment , and end fossil fuel dependency . He asserted that barriers exist but remained confident, stating, “A man is not finished when he is defeated, but he is finished when he quits. We will fight back and win.”

In addition, Gadkari reviewed highway projects worth Rs 50,000 crore in Pune, involving NHAI, MSRDC, Metro, and district officials. He announced that ground-breaking ceremonies will occur within a month, with completion expected in four to five years to ease traffic congestion. He will also inspect the Pune-Pandharpur 'Palkhi' route , which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi , and noted that 95% of the Mumbai-Goa Highway is complete, though he is cautious about formally inaugurating it due to delays.