Speaking at a press conference in Nagpur ahead of the Advantage Vidarbha–Khasdar Industrial Festival, Gadkari said leadership renewal is essential for institutions, industries and public life to remain dynamic and future-ready. The event is being organised by the Association for Industrial Development (AID) and has been conceptualised by Gadkari, who serves as its chief mentor.
“Once responsibility is handed over, seniors should transition to other roles and allow the new generation to lead,” Gadkari said. “Experience should not be lost, but it must be used to mentor, not to block progress.”
The minister’s remarks came amid discussions on regional development and industrial growth in Vidarbha. Gadkari stressed that industry, agriculture and allied sectors are the backbone of economic development and must evolve in line with changing technologies and market demands.
The Advantage Vidarbha Expo, now in its third edition, will be held in Nagpur from February 6 to 8. According to organisers, the platform aims to showcase Vidarbha’s industrial potential and attract investment across diverse sectors. Companies from textiles, plastics, minerals, coal, aviation, logistics, information technology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, defence manufacturing, real estate, renewable energy and startups are expected to participate.
Ashish Kale, president of AID, said the expo is designed to connect policymakers, entrepreneurs and investors, while creating opportunities for local industries. “Vidarbha has immense potential, and this initiative seeks to position the region as a preferred investment destination,” he said.
Gadkari noted that empowering young entrepreneurs and professionals is critical to sustaining long-term growth. He said innovation, risk-taking capacity and adaptability—often associated with younger leadership—are increasingly important in a rapidly changing global economy.
At the same time, he emphasised that senior leaders have a continuing responsibility to share their knowledge and help shape ethical and transparent systems. “The transition must be orderly and value-driven,” he said, adding that mentorship and institutional memory play a vital role in avoiding policy and management gaps.
The upcoming expo is expected to feature policy discussions, sector-specific sessions and networking opportunities aimed at fostering collaboration between government and industry. Organisers said the event aligns with broader efforts to promote balanced regional development and job creation in Maharashtra.
.jpg)
