Pune: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Conferred with Lokmanya Tilak National Award; Maharashtra CM Hails Him as ‘Man of Action’

Pune, 1st August 2025: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari was honoured with the prestigious Lokmanya Tilak National Award 2025 in Pune, in recognition of his transformative contributions to infrastructure development in India. The award ceremony was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, among other dignitaries.

Speaking on the occasion, CM Fadnavis described Gadkari as a dynamic blend of sensitivity and execution, calling him a “Man of Action” who has profoundly impacted millions of lives. “Awarding the Lokmanya Tilak National Honour to Nitin Gadkari is a tribute to a visionary leader who embodies Tilak’s legacy of nationalism, intellect, and service,” he said.

Fadnavis highlighted Gadkari’s immense contribution to India’s road and highway infrastructure, citing his role in transforming connectivity across states and building a robust logistics network. “From constructing the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to expanding national highways, his work has drawn the world’s attention,” he added.

In his acceptance speech, Gadkari expressed gratitude and said the award increased his responsibility towards building the India envisioned by Lokmanya Tilak. “Tilak’s ideas on self-reliance, nationalism, and progress continue to inspire us. I will continue to work with dedication for the country’s development,” he pledged.

He further outlined his vision for India’s future, citing major infrastructure projects underway, including the Mumbai–Bengaluru corridor, three new bridges in Pune, and tunnels under the Brahmaputra River. Gadkari also highlighted India’s rise as a global player in the automobile sector and emphasized the need for honest, tech-driven nation-building.

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde praised Gadkari’s work beyond political lines, calling him a pillar of India’s infrastructure revolution. “From flyovers in Mumbai to rural roads, his work has simplified millions of lives,” he said, adding that the Lokmanya Tilak award had found a deserving recipient.

Ajit Pawar, also speaking at the event, described Gadkari as a visionary, experimental leader who blends political acumen with deep understanding of agriculture, industry, and technology. “His decisions are marked by boldness and clarity. Maharashtra is proud to have produced such a leader,” Pawar stated.

The event also featured tributes to the legacy of Lokmanya Tilak, who laid the foundation of India’s freedom movement and inspired future generations through his writings, social reform efforts, and scientific outlook. The award, initiated in 1983 by the Lokmanya Tilak Smarak Trust, honours individuals making significant national contributions.

The ceremony began with a tribute to the late Deepak Tilak, and a special book on past awardees was released by CM Fadnavis. Dignitaries including Rohit Tilak Chandrakant Patil, Sushilkumar Shinde, Madhuri Misal, Vishwajeet Kadam, Vijay Shivtare, and Prakash Javadekar were present.

With this year’s award, Nitin Gadkari joins a long list of national stalwarts recognised for their service in building a stronger, self-reliant India in the spirit of Lokmanya Tilak’s enduring legacy.