Nitin Gadkari: Key facts about his impactful political journey

Nitin Gadkari was born on May 27, 1957, in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India. He completed his M.Com (Master of Commerce) and L.L.B. (Bachelor of Laws) from Nagpur University.

Gadkari's political journey began during his college days when he joined the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), the student wing of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization.

Gadkari rose through the ranks in Maharashtra politics, serving as the Public Works Department (PWD) Minister of Maharashtra from 1996 to 1999. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in infrastructure development, including expediting the construction of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and several flyovers in Mumbai.

Gadkari served as the President of the BJP in Maharashtra from 2004 to 2005, where he provided strategic direction to the party's activities in the state.

Gadkari's leadership abilities were recognized at the national level, leading to his appointment as the President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in December 2009.

After the BJP came to power at the center in 2014, Gadkari was appointed as the Minister for Road Transport and Highways, a crucial portfolio aimed at developing India's infrastructure, particularly its road network.

As the Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Gadkari introduced innovative and eco-friendly technologies in road construction, including the use of cement concrete and plastic waste, to reduce costs and environmental impact.

Gadkari also emphasized the development of waterways as a mode of transportation, launching projects to enhance inland water transport on rivers like the Ganga and Brahmaputra.

Gadkari has been a vocal advocate for electric vehicles (EVs) and alternative fuels to reduce pollution and dependency on fossil fuels. Under his leadership, the government set ambitious targets for the widespread adoption of EVs in India.

Outside of politics, Gadkari has interests in various business ventures, including sectors like sugar, ethanol, and power. He has authored several books on topics ranging from politics to spirituality.