Power of democracy: Fadnavis tells youth how an ordinary man became CM
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday (August 23, 2026) described his personal rise and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as evidence of the strength of India's democracy and Constitution, which he said allow ordinary citizens to reach the highest constitutional offices.
Speaking at the "Manthan 4 Yuva" event in Nagpur, Mr. Fadnavis interacted with young audiences on civic engagement and leadership, as political parties across Maharashtra and the country intensify efforts to connect with Gen Z and first-time voters ahead of upcoming elections.
"It isn't easy; our Constitution has given democracy in this country," Mr. Fadnavis said during a question-and-answer session.
"The beauty of this democracy is that someone like Devendra Fadnavis, who might never even have imagined becoming a corporator, reached the post of Chief Minister, or the boy who sold tea at a railway station in Gujarat became the country's Prime Minister."
Recalling his early days in public life, Mr. Fadnavis said he entered politics driven solely by ideological conviction when his party was in the opposition. "We used to think we were born to do politics as the Opposition... but somehow the public showed faith, and step by step, climbing one rung at a time, one day I got the responsibility of being Maharashtra's Chief Minister," he said, reiterating that politics remains a vital instrument for socio-economic change.
The Chief Minister also recounted his participation in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He said that at age 20, he spent 18 days in Badaun central jail after being arrested while heading towards Ayodhya. He stated that he was present when the Babri Masjid structure was demolished in 1992 and expressed pride in that. The demolition led to riots across India and was a landmark, controversial event in the country's political history.
Responding to a question on startup support, Mr. Fadnavis said the government has prepared a strong policy for the startup ecosystem, set up funds, created incubation centres, and is now decentralising them. "Any child from a tier-3 city who has an idea and wants to transform it into a commercial product will get full help and 100 per cent support," he assured.
Asked whether the government would frame a policy to reduce screentime for children, Mr. Fadnavis acknowledged the need to reduce screen time and called for deliberations. "Being on screen isn't entirely wrong. As you know, our economy is growing, and content creators are building a large economy and creating livelihoods. But there has to be a balance," he said.
The event reflects a broader political strategy in Maharashtra and nationally, where parties are increasingly relying on youth-focused conclaves, digital campaigns, and targeted messaging on issues like career growth, startup support, and transparent governance to engage young voters.
