Pune (Maharashtra) [India], July 13 (ANI): Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has praised Pune MP and Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, calling him a 'real leader' who remained active during tough times.

'Only the one who stands firm during adversity is a real leader,' Fadnavis said while speaking at the launch of MP Mohol's 24/7 Public Outreach Office and the release of his one-year performance report and book Pratham Manus, based on his COVID-era experiences. The event was held at Balgandharva Rangmandir in Pune on Saturday.

Fadnavis praised the BJP for giving chances to dedicated party workers, saying Mohol had shown consistent commitment in both political and administrative roles. He also spoke about Mohol's efforts during the COVID-19 crisis as the Mayor of Pune.

'He remained calm and persistent throughout the crisis, which created his distinct identity,' said Fadnavis.

The newly inaugurated 24/7 Public Office is located at JM Road in Pune. Fadnavis said that very few MPs in the country have a public outreach office that is open all day, every day. He also mentioned that Mohol was unanimously chosen to succeed the late Girish Bapat and is now working closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

'After becoming MP, he was entrusted with a significant portfolio and now works closely with PM Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah,' he said. 'Amit Shah personally praised Mohol as a disciplined and studious leader with a bright future.'

Fadnavis also announced that 12 forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj from Maharashtra have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list. 'These forts reflect exceptional architectural style and rich Maratha history. Now, they will gain global academic and tourism attention,' he said.

He further gave updates on key infrastructure projects, including the 'missing link' on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway. Once complete, it will reduce travel time by 30 minutes and feature a 9-km tunnel--the longest in India--and the tallest cable-stayed bridge in the country. He added that the second international airport for Pune is progressing well, while the Navi Mumbai airport is nearing completion.

Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol thanked citizens and party leaders for their support. Presenting his one-year report, he said, 'The people of Pune gave me an opportunity, and I have tried to deliver honestly.'

Speaking about the pandemic, Mohol said he remained connected with the public through social media for 28 months. His book Pratham Manus (First Person) captures both positive and difficult moments from that period. 'Rambhau Mhalgi once set an example by presenting a work report to the people, and I've followed the same tradition,' he added.

Mohol said the new public office would serve as a 'one-stop solution' to help citizens access various government schemes. 'When I became a minister, it was hard to believe at first. But with the party's and my colleagues' trust, I've worked with full responsibility,' he said.

Recounting his first meeting with PM Modi after taking oath, Mohol shared how the Prime Minister asked detailed questions about their ministries' responsibilities and was well-aware of incidents like the recent Delhi airport roof collapse.

'This reflects the intense vigilance and commitment of the central leadership,' Mohol said.

He affirmed his dedication to fulfilling the responsibilities of the Cooperation Ministry under the guidance of Home Minister Amit Shah. (ANI)