Mallikarjun Kharge advocates against retiring from politics in the titled article.

Senior Congress leader Sushil Kumar Shinde’s memoir, “Five Decades in Politics,” co-authored with journalist Rasheed Kidwai, was launched in the capital. At the launch, Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mr Kharge, emphasized that despite Shinde’s age, he still had a crucial role to play in strengthening the Congress party and spreading its ideology to the masses. Kharge cited Morarji Desai, who became India’s oldest prime minister at 81, to advocate for the notion that no one should retire from politics as long as they have faith in their ideology and a desire to serve the nation and its people. He clarified that such continued involvement in politics should not be for personal gain but as a “return gift” to the country and the political party that nurtured the individual.

Mr Kharge also praised Shinde’s positive demeanor and his dedication to his work throughout his illustrious career. Shinde, who has held high offices such as Maharashtra CM, Union home minister, Governor of Andhra Pradesh, AICC general secretary, and UPA’s vice-presidential candidate, was commended for his patience and calm demeanor in the face of adversity. Shinde, expressing gratitude towards the Congress party and leaders like Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, acknowledged their guidance and support throughout his career. He hoped that his memoir would serve as an inspiration to others.

The book launch was attended by senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh and was published by HarperCollins India.