Old generation should step aside when things start running smoothly: Gadkari

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday (January 18, 2026) pitched for the next generation taking important responsibilities and the old generation stepping aside when things start running smoothly.

Mr Gadkari addressed a press conference in Nagpur about the Advantage Vidarbha-Khasdar Audhyogik Mahotsav, a concept he conceptualised and which was organised by Ashish Kale, president of the Association for Industrial Development (AID).

Mr. Gadkari said that Mr. Kale has engaged the young generation in the Advantage Vidarbha initiative. “I believe that gradually, the generation should also change.” “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,” Mr. Gadkari said.

Mr. Gadkari, who is AID’s chief mentor, said this is the third year of the Advantage Vidarbha expo, being held in Nagpur from February 6 to 8.

There are very good entrepreneurs in the Vidarbha region in various sectors, Mr. Gadkari said. The objective of the three-day event is to establish Vidarbha as a strong and emerging growth hub on India’s industrial map, he added.

Mr. Gadkari also emphasised the importance of the industrial sector, agriculture and allied sectors and the service sector for the development of any region.

The Advantage Vidarbha expo will feature participation of industries from sectors such as textiles, plastics, minerals, coal, aviation, logistics, IT, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence, real estate, renewable energy, and startups.