Union Minister Nitin Gadkari openly discussed his work style and perspective at a public event. During the inauguration of the Al Ibrahim Education Society, he shared an interesting anecdote related to a conversation between the King of Dubai and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He also openly shared his views on education, social thinking, and casteism in politics.
The King of Dubai said to PM Modi:
Gadkari recounted at the event that a banquet was once held at Hyderabad House in Delhi in honor of the ruler of Dubai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the King of Dubai, and Gadkari himself were present at the banquet. During the conversation, the King of Dubai, smiling, said to PM Modi,
"Modi ji, do the UAE a favor."
When the Prime Minister asked what he wanted, he replied –
"Export Nitin Gadkari for 6 months to Dubai."
Gadkari mentioned that the entire hall erupted in laughter upon hearing the King's words. He said that this was not a joke, but a symbol of international recognition of his work. He saw it as an appreciation for his work and his accomplishments in the infrastructure sector.
Knowledge is Essential for Progress, Not Just Rituals
At the event, Gadkari also delivered a significant message about the importance of education. He said that if one wants to achieve success, respect, and a place in society in life, knowledge is the greatest power. He stated,
"You may go to a temple or a mosque, pray a hundred times, but if you don't know English, don't understand math and science, don't have an understanding of administration and entrepreneurship, how will you progress?"
Gadkari shared that when he was an MLA, all the MLAs were being given educational institutions. When he received an engineering college, he handed it over to the Muslim community organization 'Anjuman-e-Islam' instead of running it in his own name. He proudly stated that today, 8 to 10 thousand students have graduated as engineers from that institution.
He appealed to the youth to rise above religion, caste, and discrimination and prioritize education and knowledge, as this is the real capital that gives a person recognition in society.
Backwardness Has Become a Political Interest
Targeting caste-based politics, Gadkari said that nowadays, the issue of backwardness is being repeatedly mentioned in society and this has become "Backwardness Become a Political Interest." He said that now everyone is trying to prove how backward they are in order to gain political advantage.
Gadkari shared an experience from his visit to Uttar Pradesh, saying that once when he went there, some people told him, "After Atal Bihari Vajpayee, if there is a b Brahmin leader, it is you."
When he asked for the reason, the answer was – "Because you are a Brahmin." To this, Gadkari clearly stated that he does not believe in caste-based politics. He said that his politics is based on work, development, and honesty, not on caste identity.
