'People have seen pace of progress, party will win 370 seats'

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari says he is social worker first, then a politician, and advocates the need for a third term for Modi govt for massive infra push

- 

UNION Road, Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari calls himself as a social worker rather than a politician.

One of the top performing ministers in the cabinet, Gadkari not only predicts a third term for Prime Minister Narendra Modi but also a BJP win in more than 370 seats. Taking time off his campaign schedule in Nagpur, Gadkari tells Rajesh Kumar Thakur that he firmly believes in "empowerment politics." Excerpts:

You are seeking a third term from Nagpur. How is the 'josh' (enthusiasm) among the people?

The 'janata ka josh' for the right person always remains high. People in Nagpur appreciate development which our government has been carrying forward at a breakneck speed.

People want to be part of 'Viksit Bharat', and erl of course, a more 'Viksit Nagpur.'

What are your expectations in this election?

This election is for development. I see politics as a tool for bringing prosperity to the people in terms of development, infrastructure and whatever people need for living a dignified life with a higher degree of 'ease of living' and 'ease of doing developments'. In Nagpur, the people have seen development and they say more and more development is the need of the hour.

I never discriminate against people based on their caste, creed, or anything else. I have been a trusted and delivery-oriented person. I expect to win by more than 5 lakh votes this time.

A video recently surfaced across social media in which a handicapped Muslim man is heard thanking you for support that enabled him to eke out a living. How do you manage to render such services amid political engagements?