Dr. Shikha Mishra
Nagpur: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari's recent remarks about handing over responsibilities to the younger generation have sparked widespread discussion. However, Gadkari's office has issued a clarification, stating that his comments have been taken out of context and were unrelated to politics.
In an official statement, Gadkari's office said that the minister was specifically referring to the functioning and future leadership of the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust, an organization founded by him that runs Ekal Vidyalayas in tribal regions. The statement emphasized that his remarks were linked to the trust's activities and succession planning, not to any political role or responsibility.
Addressing a gathering at the Eklavya Ekal Vidyalaya Teacher-Supervisor Training Camp in Katol, Nagpur, on Monday, Gadkari reflected on the journey of the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust and praised its contributions to education in tribal areas.
Speaking about his decreasing involvement in day-to-day activities, Gadkari said, "Work should be handed over to the new generation. A new generation has emerged, while the older generation should continue to guide and mentor them." The minister further noted that he has been active in public life for the past three decades and has witnessed both successes and challenges during his career.
"I have been continuously working in public life for the last 30 years. I have seen many ups and downs and received several honors, but now I cannot work as much as I used to. The younger generation should be given an opportunity to take responsibility," he said.
Despite his comments on stepping back from some responsibilities, Gadkari also spoke about future development initiatives. He expressed confidence that the scope of work would continue to expand in the coming years, with a particular focus on ensuring that no tribal village in Maharashtra remains without electricity and that development reaches every corner of the state. The clarification from Gadkari's office comes amid speculation over his remarks, reiterating that they were intended solely in the context of the trust's operations and leadership transition.
