Union Minister Nitin Gadkari’s office on Tuesday clarified that his recent remark about being unable to take on as much work as before was not related to politics. The clarification came after his comments at an event in Nagpur were interpreted by some as having a political implication. His office stated that Gadkari was specifically referring to the Laxmanrao Mankar Trust and the need to give greater responsibility to the younger generation.

According to the statement, Gadkari was discussing the functioning and future leadership of the trust, which was established by him and runs Ekal Vidyalayas in tribal areas. The Minister had said that he could no longer take on as much work as before and that younger people should receive opportunities to assume greater responsibilities. His office maintained that the remarks were made entirely in the context of the organisation.

The clarification also criticised the way some television channels had presented the comments. Gadkari’s office stated that the remarks had been taken out of their actual context and portrayed as a political statement. It reiterated that the Minister was speaking about the trust’s functioning and the transition of responsibilities to a younger generation rather than making a comment about his political future.

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Speaking at the event in Nagpur on Sunday, Gadkari referred to his more than three decades in active public life. He recalled experiencing several ups and downs, handling different responsibilities and receiving various honours during his career. He also spoke about how his working style had changed over the years, noting that it was no longer possible for him to work with the same intensity as earlier and that younger people should get an opportunity to contribute.

The 69-year-old Minister also discussed changes he had made to his lifestyle, particularly after the Covid-19 pandemic. Recalling his early political years, Gadkari said he had worked under difficult circumstances, travelled extensively, ate whatever was available and maintained a simple lifestyle while focusing on organisational responsibilities. He said he had since brought greater discipline to his routine and now regularly practises yoga.

Gadkari also stressed the importance of health for people involved in public life. He argued that health should take priority over position, power and prestige, emphasising that such achievements have little value if a person's health is not good. His office's clarification has sought to place his comments firmly in the context of the trust and his views on health, work and the role of the younger generation.

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