By Arpita Ghosh
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday warned that ongoing global conflicts could lead to a potential world war, citing the wars between Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and Iran, as examples of rising tensions. Speaking at a book launch in Nagpur, Gadkari said growing authoritarianism among superpowers was eroding global values of coordination, harmony and love. He called for urgent international dialogue to prevent further escalation. 鈥淭here is an atmosphere of conflict across the world. The situation is such that a world war could happen at any time,鈥 said Gadkari at the release of the book Beyond Borders. 鈥淎uthoritarianism and dictatorship are slowly replacing peace and understanding.鈥 The Union Road Transport and Highways Minister also spoke of the changing nature of warfare, noting that advanced technology such as drones and missiles are increasingly targeting civilian areas, making it harder to “protect humanity”. 鈥淭anks and older forms of military power are becoming less relevant,鈥 he said, adding, “Missiles are now being fired into residential areas. This has become a serious issue that must be addressed globally.” 鈥淚t may not be right to say so, but this path is slowly leading us toward destruction,鈥 he opined. Gadkari said India, as the land of Buddha and the message of non-violence, must take a lead in pushing for peace and diplomatic solutions. He also called on ethe need for global leaders to reassess current policies and work toward a more harmonious and peaceful world order.