Marking a major milestone in national governance, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, hosted a comprehensive press conference in Nagpur. The briefing provided an extensive review of the transformative infrastructure development, economic growth, and welfare initiatives achieved over the past 12 years under the leadership of the Central Government.
The high-profile event was widely attended by key state leaders and public representatives. Among the prominent dignitaries present was Chandrashekhar Bawankule, who shared an update from the conference. In his update, Bawankule lauded the ongoing national journey toward building an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) and achieving the vision of a Viksit Bharat (developed India).
What Happened?
During the press conference held on June 13, 2026, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari evaluated the massive strides made by India across key sectors over the last 12 years, focusing on a digital revolution, extensive infrastructure expansions, and poverty alleviation programs.
A central highlight of the briefing was the announcement of an ambitious environmental campaign aimed at transforming Nagpur into a “Green City”. Under the national “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” initiative, Gadkari pledged the plantation and conservation of 2.5 million trees across the Nagpur district and city. High-quality saplings measuring two to three meters in height will be provided directly to schools, universities, voluntary organizations, and political parties to ensure sustainable urban growth.
The meeting brought together an array of local and state leaders showing strong political alignment, including Member of Parliament (MP) Mayatai, multiple Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) such as Krishna Khopde, Parinay Fuke, Ashish Deshmukh, and several municipal corporation officials.
Why It Matters
The 12-year review highlights a decade-plus shift from basic developmental planning to aggressive, high-speed execution of infrastructure projects. Gadkari pointed out that balancing rapid industrialization with rigorous environmental conservation is vital for modern urban ecosystems. The massive tree-planting drive is engineered to offset the carbon footprint generated by large-scale highway expansions and urban modernization.
Additionally, the ministry announced that the Revenue and Forest Departments, alongside the Remote Sensing Centre in Nagpur, will begin satellite mapping of all districts and talukas in Maharashtra. This system will track and document extensive plantation efforts, publicly recognizing regions that actively contribute to the green cover.
Key Welfare and Economic Milestones Cited
The review outlined several transformative socio-economic achievements executed over the 12-year tenure:
- Financial Inclusion: Over 58 crore bank accounts have been successfully opened under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
- Healthcare & Energy: The Ayushman Bharat scheme has extended medical benefits to 60 crore citizens, while over 11 crore LPG connections were distributed under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana.
- Startup Ecosystem: Under Startup India, the nation has seen the rise of 1.6 lakh startups and 118 unicorn companies.
- Local Infrastructure: Major local progress includes Phase II expansions of the Nagpur Metro and redevelopment plans for prime regional commercial hubs like the Cotton Market, Orange Market, and Itwari Market.
Key Takeaways
- 12 Years of Review: The press conference highlighted a decade-plus journey centered on Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat goals.
- Massive Green Initiative: A target of planting 2.5 million trees across Nagpur under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign.
- Satellite Tracking: Remote sensing technology will be utilized to map and monitor forestation progress across Maharashtra.
- Unified Leadership: Coordinated participation from state ministers, MPs, and MLAs to drive district-level developments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What was the purpose of the press conference held by Nitin Gadkari?
The press conference was organized to present a comprehensive review of the developmental milestones, economic progress, and welfare schemes executed during the 12-year tenure of the Central Government.
What is the “Green Nagpur” initiative?
It is a dedicated environmental drive aiming to plant 2.5 million trees across the Nagpur district using mature saplings (2-3 meters tall) to ensure high survival rates and rapid growth.
How will technology be used to monitor the environmental progress?
The government will collaborate with the Remote Sensing Centre in Nagpur to map all districts and talukas in Maharashtra via satellite imaging to accurately document and track green cover growth.
What are some of the prominent local projects mentioned for Nagpur?
Key infrastructure highlights include the ongoing construction of Nagpur Metro Phase II, the completion of the Phase III Detailed Project Report (DPR), and the modernization of major local trade zones like the Cotton and Orange Markets.
