Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 19: Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday strongly advocated for a generational shift in leadership, saying senior leaders should gradually step back once institutions and systems are running effectively, allowing younger people to assume responsibility.
Speaking at a press conference in Nagpur ahead of the Advantage Vidarbha–Khasdar Audhyogik Mahotsav, Gadkari said he firmly believes in the smooth transfer of leadership to the next generation. He stressed that empowering youth is essential for sustaining progress and innovation.
The industrial exhibition, envisioned by Gadkari, is being organised by Ashish Kale, president of the Association for Industrial Development (AID). Praising Kale’s efforts, Gadkari said the initiative reflects active participation by young entrepreneurs and professionals.
“I strongly feel that leadership must evolve with time,” Gadkari said. Referring to his long association with Kale’s family, he remarked that once systems are stable and functioning well, senior leaders should step aside and allow fresh minds to take charge. “When the vehicle starts running smoothly, it is time for us to withdraw and take up other responsibilities,” he added.
As the chief mentor of AID, Gadkari noted that the upcoming edition will be the third Advantage Vidarbha expo, scheduled to be held in Nagpur from February 6 to 8. He said Vidarbha possesses significant entrepreneurial potential across sectors and that the event aims to project the region as an emerging industrial destination.
“The goal of this three-day expo is to firmly establish Vidarbha as a growing hub on India’s industrial landscape,” Gadkari said.
He also highlighted the need for balanced development, identifying industry, agriculture and allied sectors, and services as the three key pillars of regional and economic growth. According to him, sustained progress depends on strengthening all these areas simultaneously.
The Advantage Vidarbha expo is expected to attract participation from a diverse range of industries, including textiles, plastics, minerals, coal, aviation, logistics, information technology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence manufacturing, real estate, renewable energy, and startups, providing a comprehensive platform for investment and collaboration.