India, Nov. 14 -- Union minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari was in conversation with Hindustan Times' national political editor and bureau chief Sunetra Choudhury at an online session of the 22nd Hindustan Times Leadership Summit. Their conversation spanned infrastructure, environment, and the politics of his home state, Maharashtra, which goes to polls on November 20.

How much are roads a factor for voters in an election?

A country where water, power, transport and communication are developed attracts capital investment which leads to an increase in industries, trade and business. Per capita income increases and poverty reduces. Therefore, better infrastructure is important for the country's development and progress....