Addressing a gathering at a gratitude and fellowship event organised by the Pune-based Lakshmanrao Gutte Rural Development Foundation for former state and district office-bearers, Pawar said that although political ideologies may differ, national interest must remain above partisan divisions. He emphasised that when it comes to the honour of the country, political disagreements should not be allowed to interfere.
Pawar also referred to former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi, P. V. Narasimha Rao, and Manmohan Singh, stating that each of them consistently prioritised India’s long-term national interests and its international reputation during their tenure. He stressed that the dignity and global image of the country should remain a shared responsibility across political lines.
The veteran leader appealed to political workers and former colleagues from various parties to continue working together whenever matters of national importance arise. He stated that if an opportunity emerges to serve the national interest collectively, all should participate with a unified objective of enhancing the country’s prestige.
Reflecting on his personal political journey, Pawar recalled shifting to Pune in 1958 at the age of 18 due to the absence of a college in Baramati at the time. He described his early involvement in student and youth politics, which later led to his rise within the Youth Congress. He noted that he became the Pune City Youth Congress president within four years and subsequently headed the Maharashtra Youth Congress before taking on responsibilities at the national level.
Pawar also remarked that many individuals present at the event had spent their formative years in youth organisations and public service before joining different political parties over time. He acknowledged their continued engagement with grassroots society despite political realignments.
Recalling his early interactions with national leadership, Pawar spoke about meeting India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru at Teen Murti House in New Delhi. He said that although he and his colleagues had prepared several questions on issues related to farmers and youth, they forgot them upon encountering Nehru due to his towering personality.
He further narrated an incident involving former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi during an official visit to the former Soviet Union. Citing a conversation with former diplomat and Prime Minister I. K. Gujral, Pawar said Gandhi had strongly objected when she felt that the Indian Prime Minister was not being accorded proper respect by Soviet authorities. He quoted her as saying that she represented millions of Indians and would not tolerate any insult to the dignity of the nation.
Concluding his address, Pawar welcomed the coming together of former colleagues from different political backgrounds and urged them to continue collaborating on initiatives aimed at public welfare and national development.
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