Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday called for a generational transition in leadership, saying younger people should be entrusted with key responsibilities while senior leaders step back once systems are functioning effectively.
Speaking at a press conference in Nagpur ahead of the Advantage Vidarbha–Khasdar Audhyogik Mahotsav, Gadkari praised the involvement of youth in the initiative, which was conceptualised by him and organised by Ashish Kale, president of the Association for Industrial Development (AID). He noted that Kale has actively brought younger participants into the programme, underscoring the need for leadership renewal over time, news agency PTI reported.
Referring to his long association with Kale’s family, Gadkari remarked that senior members should gradually move aside and allow the next generation to take charge. “I believe that gradually, the generation should also change." He said once a project or organisation is running smoothly, experienced leaders can step away and focus on other areas of contribution.
“Ashish’s father is my friend. Now we should be gradually made to retire and the responsibility be given to the new generation, and when the vehicle starts running smoothly, then we should withdraw and do some other work," Gadkari said.
Gadkari, who serves as chief mentor to AID, said the Advantage Vidarbha expo is entering its third edition and will be held in Nagpur from February 6 to 8. He highlighted the presence of capable entrepreneurs across Vidarbha in multiple industries and said the event aims to position the region as a growing industrial and investment destination in the country.
He also stressed that balanced growth depends on the development of industry, agriculture and allied activities, along with the service sector. The three-day expo will see participation from a wide range of fields, including textiles, plastics, minerals, coal, aviation, logistics, information technology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence, real estate, renewable energy, and startups.
