Manthan 2025: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari, attended the Convocation Ceremony of ISOMES and the Conclave, Manthan 2025, on Wednesday. In an exclusive conversation with News 24’s Editor-in-Chief, Anurradha Prasad, he discussed several topics. He shared his experiences and offered advice to the students. The Union Minister emphasized the importance of prioritizing health first, honest wealth second, and work third. Quoting Swami Vivekananda to support his second priority, he said, “No philosophy can be taught to an empty stomach.” He also mentioned that while there are many shortcuts, one should avoid using them, as “shortcuts cut you short.”

When asked why he doesn’t call himself a professional politician despite being in politics full-time, Gadkari said that the problem in politics is not political differences, but a lack of thought. He described himself as a student of politics based on conviction, not convenience.

Gadkari On ‘Emergency‘

The Union Minister further shared his views on the film Emergency, directed by actress and BJP MP Kangana Ranaut. He called the film “beautiful.” Emergency is set to hit theaters on January 17. He appreciated Kangana for her portrayal of the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in the film.

When questioned whether there is any difference between the ‘real’ and ‘reel’ Emergency, Gadkari said, “In the film, the good side of Indira Gandhi is also shown.” He emphasized that nothing was done right during the Emergency in reality, whereas the film presents a more positive portrayal. “I did not say that good work was done during the Emergency. I said that good work is shown in the film,” Gadkari added.

Furthermore, he said that one should move forward without repeating the mistakes of the past.

He highlighted that road safety needs to be prioritized in the country, as 180,000 people die due to road accidents, with 66% of them in the age bracket of 18-34 years. Additionally, 10,000 students die because of the unavailability of exit and entry points at the schools.

Gadkari added that under his tenure as Union Road Transport and Highways Minister, they have focused on road engineering.

Watch The Video Here:

Also Read: Manthan 2025 Kicks Off! Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Receives Prestigious ISOMES Award