Time for Youth to Take Charge, Seniors Must Step Back When Systems Stabilise: Nitin Gadkari

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday stressed the importance of generational transition in leadership, saying the next generation should be entrusted with responsibility while senior leaders should step aside once systems begin functioning smoothly.

Speaking at a press conference in Nagpur, Gadkari was addressing the upcoming Advantage Vidarbha–Khasdar Audhyogik Mahotsav, an industrial expo conceptualised by him and organised by Ashish Kale, president of the Association for Industrial Development (AID).

Gadkari, who serves as AID’s chief mentor, praised Kale for actively involving young entrepreneurs in the Advantage Vidarbha initiative. “I strongly believe that generations must change with time. Ashish’s father is my friend, but now the responsibility should gradually move to the younger generation,” he said.

Using an analogy, Gadkari added that once a system or organisation begins running smoothly, senior leaders should withdraw and take up other roles. “When the vehicle starts running well, we should step back and let the new generation drive,” he remarked.

The Union Minister said the Advantage Vidarbha Expo, now in its third year, will be held in Nagpur from February 6 to 8. He highlighted that Vidarbha has strong entrepreneurial talent across multiple sectors, and the objective of the three-day event is to position the region as an emerging industrial and growth hub on India’s economic map.

Gadkari also underlined the role of industry, agriculture and allied sectors, and the services sector in driving regional development.

The expo will see participation from industries spanning textiles, plastics, minerals, coal, aviation, logistics, IT, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence, real estate, renewable energy, and startups, showcasing Vidarbha’s growing industrial potential.