I am an antique piece, says Pranab

“I am one of the oldest politicians alive in India, almost an antique in the political arena, who has been sticking to the wicket for the last five decades, occasionally expressing a desire to retire, but still sticking to the wicket,” the 75-year-old Congress veteran said. Mukherjee who was at the ISI to participate in a panel discussion on “Expectation from future leaders” said he was not sure how long he could continue in the pitch, prompting students to enjoy a hearty laugh. The finance minister had dropped broad hints while contesting the May 2009 Lok Sabha elections that he might call it a day after the poll, as he was growing old.

He, however, did not repeat the point here at the ISI. According to him,  young Indians of today have demonstrated tremendous confidence in addressing serious issues like inflation and uncertainty regarding the revival of the world economy. “Fortunately, young Indians are not carrying any baggage and are not afraid of facing the challenges,” he told the students.
BJP leader Arun Shourie, who was among the panelists, showered praise on Mukherjee, mixing humour, “He is one of the best prime ministers we are yet to have.”

Shourie described him as a man of trust and keystone of Indian governance. Bollywood actor Anupam Kher and former Indian cricket skipper Saurav Ganguly were among the panelists.