In my considered belief, commitment unlocks the doors of imagination, allows vision that serves us with an opportunity to turn dreams into reality. With a firm focus on achieving desired results, I have always been a strong votary of reforms and turnarounds in my endeavours to bring about a positive transformation in the society. My credentials have propelled me into the league of top three Indian leaders by Asia Week magazine in its lead story “Giant on the Move”, further strengthening my resolve to strike a healthy balance between human development and fragile eco-system.

Before taking over as the Minister of Commerce and Industry and Civil Aviation, Government of India, I have had the privilege of handling several ministries like the Railways to Environment and Power and Heavy Industries. As Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s Sherpa at the G 20 Summit, I had the good fortune of being a personal representative of the head of a state and Chairman of the Task Force on Interlinking of Rivers Project. I staunchly believe that all projects can be taken to their logical fruition with a clear blueprint and stipulated deadlines.

As a Rajya Sabha MP from Andhra Pradesh and Haryana and, four-time Lok Sabha MP from Rajapur in Maharashtra, my doors have always been open to people in my perception that it eliminates red tape and promotes inclusive thinking. I am receptive to new ideas and appreciate constructive criticism while encouraging public and stakeholder participation.

In my younger days, I was firmly focused on academic growth and excellence. In those days only a minuscule, two per cent students could pass the CA exam. It also helped me to clear the UPSC exams.

Before entering public life, I was grounded into social work, often taking part in festivals like the Ganeshotsava. I feel it offered me a platform into understanding public pulse in my evolution as a political leader. As Vice Chairman and then as Chairman of the Saraswat Bank, I supported its computerization. With my roots in Sindhudurg, I drafted a full report of that area along with TCS to explore how tourism could be developed in that picturesque terrain. It was my privilege to have been associated as a member with over 150 social organizations and NGOs before becoming a Member of the Parliament.

I am blessed that people have always been disposed kindly towards me. I attribute it to my methodical, disciplined and systematic approach in whatever role I found myself in. Credibility and conscience are at the core of my thinking philosophy – one reason why I have earned respect from even political opponents. I pledge to be equal to this trust and continue to work without fear or favour.