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Sunetra Pawar Makes History as Maharashtra's First Woman Deputy Chief Minister

Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, making history as the first woman to hold the post. She fills the vacancy created by the tragic death of her husband, former Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, in a plane crash. The oath was administered by Governor Acharya Devvrat in a ceremony attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. A Rajya Sabha MP, Sunetra Pawar is recognized for her advocacy in sustainable development and environmental conservation.

Key Points: Sunetra Pawar Sworn In as Maharashtra's First Woman Deputy CM

  • Historic first woman Deputy CM of Maharashtra
  • Steps into role after Ajit Pawar's demise
  • Known for environmental and rural work
  • Oath administered by Governor Acharya Devvrat
  • Backed by NCP legislative party
2 min read

"Very big thing that a woman has become Deputy CM": NCP leader Zeeshan Siddique hails Sunetra Pawar

NCP's Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Ajit Pawar, is sworn in as Maharashtra's first female Deputy Chief Minister, hailed as a historic moment.

"This is a very big thing that a woman has become the Deputy CM of the state - Zeeshan Siddique"

Mumbai, January 31

NCP leader Zeeshan Siddique on Saturday lauded Sunetra Pawar, wife of late Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, after her historic elevation as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, calling it "a very big thing".

"Sunetra Pawar was always with Ajit Dada during his tough times, and today she has taken such a big responsibility...This is a very big thing that a woman has become the Deputy CM of the state," he said.

Earlier today, Maharashtra Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath of office to Sunetra Pawar in the presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde at Lok Bhavan in Mumbai.

She stepped into fill the post that became vacant following the demise of Ajit Pawar in a plane crash on January 28 in Baramati. With this, Sunetra Pawar becomes the first woman Deputy Chief Minsiter of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Maharashtra State President of NCP, Sunil Tatkare and NCP Working President Praful Patel, and Maharashtra Minister Chhagan Bhujbal were also present at the occasion.

NCP leaders raised the slogans of "Ahjit Dada amar rahe (long live Ajit Dada) and 'Bharat Mat ki Jai' as Sunetra Pawar took the oath of office.

She was earlier elected leader of the NCP Legislative Party earlier today.

NCP leaders then met with Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis to finalise Sunetra Pawar's appointment as Deputy CM.

Sunetra Pawar is known for her work in sustainable development, environmental conservation, and rural empowerment. A Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha, she has emerged as a driving force behind several initiatives that promote inclusive and sustainable progress.

In 2010, she founded the Environmental Forum of India (EFOI), a non-governmental organisation dedicated to raising environmental awareness and fostering eco-conscious communities. She has led extensive grassroots campaigns focusing on biodiversity conservation, protection of endangered species, water resource management, and drought mitigation.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
While it's great to see a woman Deputy CM, let's be honest - this feels more like political dynasty management than a merit-based appointment. She is stepping into her late husband's shoes. I hope she proves her capability independently.
S
Sarah B
Her work with the Environmental Forum of India is commendable. Maharashtra faces serious ecological challenges. Hopefully, she can bring that expertise to the deputy CM's office. Wishing her strength during this difficult personal time.
A
Arjun K
A woman Deputy CM is a big step forward, no doubt. But the real test will be in her governance. We need action on farmer issues, water management, and employment, not just symbolic appointments. Jai Maharashtra!
M
Meera T
As a woman from a rural background, it's inspiring to see this. Her focus on rural empowerment in her past work gives me hope that she will understand our struggles. May she lead with wisdom and compassion.
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Vikram M
The circumstances are tragic, but the appointment is significant. Let's see if this breaks the glass ceiling for good or remains a one-off. The political culture needs to change to promote more women from outside political families too.

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