Parrikar dismisses reports of his retirement, says it was reporter's wishful thinking

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has dismissed reports of his retirement saying it was a reporter's wishful thinking.

Clarifying his statement, Parrikar tweeted, "At the age of 60, normally people think of retirement and perhaps I would have also. But I had to take bigger responsibilities at Centre and I assure you that I will come back only after finishing the task I am given."

Speaking at a function organised by the Lokmmanya Multipurpose Co-Operative Credit Society, in Mapusa town about 10 km north of Panaji, Parrikar has said, "After 60 (years), one has to think about retirement. I turn 60 on December 13, therefore, I had started thinking about retirement two-three years back. I have to intensify that, therefore, I don't feel inclined to take up big responsibilities."

After serving as chief minister since 2012, Parrikar was inducted into the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance government in late 2014.

"Finally, there is a question mark over the possibility of finding people with leadership qualities in a small state. But one thing I will say, my attention will be on Goa. And if the government in Goa goes on a wrong path, then I will bring it back on track. I can give this guarantee to Goans," he had asserted.