Gadkari Highlights Bureaucratic Roadblocks Amid Abundant Funds

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari highlighted abundant funding availability, but criticized bureaucratic resistance to innovation. Praising former bureaucrat Vijay Kelkar for his flexible approach, Gadkari noted Kelkar's significant contributions to policy and economic reform, particularly in preventing bank losses and advocating for GST, despite systemic challenges.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has emphasized that while there is ample funding for developmental projects, bureaucratic inflexibility remains a significant impediment. Gadkari particularly criticized the rigid adherence to traditional practices that often stifle innovative solutions.

He lauded former bureaucrat Vijay Kelkar, describing him as an exception for adopting a flexible approach in policymaking. Gadkari cited Kelkar's role in preventing a financial crisis by addressing stalled projects worth Rs 3.85 lakh crore, which could have otherwise led to non-performing assets amounting to Rs 3 lakh crore.

Gadkari's remarks came during a function in Pune where Kelkar was honored with the Punyabhushan Award. Reflecting on Kelkar's pivotal contributions, including advocating for the Goods and Services Tax (GST) under formidable circumstances, Gadkari reaffirmed the transformative potential of flexible policy implementation.

(With inputs from agencies.)