“I Never Even Dreamed of Becoming a Corporator, Democracy Made Me Chief Minister”: Fadnavis Tells Youth

Nagpur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that one of the greatest strengths of Indian democracy is that a person from an ordinary background can rise to the position of Chief Minister through hard work, public trust and democratic opportunities.

Speaking to young people at the ‘Manthan 4 Yuva’ programme in Nagpur, Fadnavis reflected on his political journey. He said that when he entered politics, he had never imagined that he would even become a corporator. The democratic system gave him opportunities to move forward, eventually taking him to the post of Chief Minister.

Fadnavis said that in a democracy, a person’s starting point does not determine their future. Referring to his own political journey and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said India’s democratic system provides ordinary citizens with the opportunity to take on major responsibilities.

During the interaction, Gen Z participants asked the Chief Minister questions on politics, leadership, startups, technology and the responsibilities associated with the office of the Chief Minister.

Speaking about his decision to enter politics, Fadnavis said his initial objective was not to seek power. He entered public life driven by his ideas and gradually moved forward through years of political work and struggle. He also recalled some of the movements he participated in during the early phase of his political career.

Fadnavis said politics should not be viewed merely as a means of gaining power. In his view, it can also serve as an instrument for bringing about social and economic change.

Fadnavis on the Responsibility of Being Chief Minister 

Asked about the biggest challenge of being Chief Minister, Fadnavis said different sections of society have different expectations from the government. Balancing these expectations while taking decisions in the public interest is an important responsibility of the Chief Minister.

He said the Chief Minister faces new situations and challenges every day. Understanding public expectations and responding appropriately is an important part of governance.

Focus on Youth and Startups

Responding to questions about startups, Fadnavis said the Maharashtra government is taking steps to strengthen the state’s startup ecosystem. Work is being undertaken to provide facilities such as funding support and incubation centres for emerging entrepreneurs.

He also highlighted the potential of young people from smaller cities and rural areas. According to Fadnavis, good ideas are not limited to major cities. Young people from smaller towns and other regions also need access to the right platforms, guidance and support to develop their ideas.

The interaction concluded with a message encouraging young people to participate actively in the democratic process. Referring to his own political journey, Fadnavis said democracy can provide opportunities that allow an ordinary person to rise to a position of responsibility that they may never have imagined reaching.