‘Can’t Work Much, New Generation Needs…’: Nitin Gadkari’s Remarks Spark Retirement Speculation

News india ‘Can’t Work Much, New Generation Needs…’: Nitin Gadkari’s Remarks Spark Retirement Speculation

‘Can’t Work Much, New Generation Needs…’: Nitin Gadkari’s Remarks Spark Retirement Speculation

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Last Updated: August 24, 2026, 20:00 IST

“I have been working for the past 30 years. I have seen ups and downs...But I can't work much now, new generation should get chance," says Nitin Gadkari amid cabinet reshuffle buzz

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Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.

Amid the speculation over a possible expansion of the Union Cabinet and changes in ministerial portfolios, Nitin Gadkari’s latest remarks have triggered fresh discussion around his “retirement" in political circles.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Gadkari is a senior minister in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Cabinet and has been in the spotlight for his work on expressways and road infrastructure across the country. However, in recent months, Gadkari has also faced criticism over several issues. He has consistently advocated ethanol-blended petrol, while some consumers have alleged that ethanol-blended fuel is causing damage to vehicles. The Opposition has also targeted the minister over the issue.

‘New generation should be given a chance’

Speaking at the Eklavya Ekal Vidyalaya Teacher-Supervisor Training Class at Katol in Nagpur district, Gadkari was quoted by News18 Marathi as saying, “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 work much now, the new generation should be given a chance to work."

📍Katol, Nagpur | Addressing Eklavya Ekal Vidyalaya Shikshak-Parvekshak Prashikshan Varg organised by Laxmanrao Mankar Trusthttps://t.co/IhosghyqDE— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) August 23, 2026

His remarks about giving the new generation an opportunity have led to speculation about his political future, with some interpreting the statement as a possible indication of political retirement. However, Gadkari has not made any formal announcement regarding his retirement.

Change in daily routine

Gadkari spoke about changes in his daily routine and lifestyle following 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.

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

Farmers’ welfare

The Union minister also expressed concern over the increasing number of farmer suicides and said he wanted to do more for the welfare of farmers in the remaining years.

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Key Questions Answered Powered by Ask News18 Will Nitin Gadkari actually retire from active politics soon? Nitin Gadkari has not made a formal announcement about retiring from active politics. However, his recent remarks about not being able to work much and the new generation needing opportunities have led to speculation about his political future. Who might replace Nitin Gadkari in the Union Cabinet? The current reporting does not specify who might replace Nitin Gadkari in the Union Cabinet. Powered by Ask News18

About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 20 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing speci... Read More

First Published: August 24, 2026, 19:34 IST

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