"I can’t work much now," Nitin Gadkari's latest comments spark retirement speculation

Union minister Nitin Gadkari’s remarks about giving the “new generation” a chance have triggered fresh speculation about his retirement, amid reports of a possible Union Cabinet expansion and changes in ministerial portfolios.

Gadkari has not announced any decision to retire from politics or step down from the Union Cabinet.

Speaking at the Eklavya Ekal Vidyalaya Teacher-Supervisor Training Class in Katol, Nagpur district, Gadkari on Sunday spoke about his 30 years in public life and said he could not work as much as before.


“I have been continuously working in public life for the last 30 years. I have seen many ups and downs and received many awards... But I can’t do much social work now, the new generation should be given a chance to take this responsibility ahead,” Gadkari said.

The comment has prompted questions over whether Gadkari was referring to a possible retirement or a reduced role in active politics. However, there is no formal confirmation from the minister on his political future.

In January too, Gadkari had said the older generation should gradually step aside and hand over responsibility to the next generation.

What did Nitin Gadkari say about retirement?

Gadkari did not directly say that he was retiring. His comments focused on his long career in public life and the need to provide opportunities to younger people.

The remarks come amid speculation over a possible Union Cabinet reshuffle, including changes in ministerial portfolios.

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Gadkari has been a senior minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government and has held the Road Transport and Highways portfolio since 2014.

Nitin Gadkari talks about health and lifestyle

During the event, Gadkari also spoke about how his lifestyle changed after the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Earlier, while doing party work, I used to eat samosas and sleep anywhere. But after the Corona period, I have become disciplined and now I do yoga every day without fail. If you are not in good health, power and position are of no use,” he said.

Gadkari also quoted a popular song while stressing the importance of life.

“Sajan re jhooth mat bolo, na haathi hai na ghoda hai…Life is precious,” he said.

Nitin Gadkari on farmers

The Union minister also raised concerns about the increasing number of farmer suicides and said he wanted to do more for farmers’ welfare in the years ahead.

Gadkari has been a key figure in India’s road infrastructure push, with his ministry overseeing several expressway and highway projects.

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His support for ethanol-blended petrol has also drawn criticism in recent months, particularly amid consumer concerns over the impact of ethanol-blended fuel on vehicles. The Opposition has also targeted the minister over the issue.