Sharad Pawar is one of India’s most influential and seasoned politicians, whose career spans over five decades. Known for his political acumen, adaptability, and leadership, he has held key positions in Maharashtra and at the national level. From serving as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra multiple times to founding the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Pawar has left a lasting legacy in Indian politics.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Sharad Govindrao Pawar was born on December 12, 1940, in Baramati, a town in the Pune district of Maharashtra. He hails from a Maratha farming family. His father, Govindrao Pawar, was a respected educationalist and social worker.
Education
Sharad Pawar completed his schooling in Baramati and later graduated from Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC) in Pune. His early life was marked by strong involvement in student activities, laying the foundation for his political career.
Entry into Politics
Early Political Involvement
Sharad Pawar’s political journey began with the Youth Congress. He joined the Indian National Congress and was elected as an MLA from Baramati in 1967 at the age of 27.
Rising Through the Ranks
By the 1970s, he emerged as a strong leader within the Congress and gained popularity for his grassroots connect and administrative capabilities.
Chief Minister of Maharashtra
First Tenure (1978–1980)
In a major political move, Sharad Pawar broke away from the Congress to form the Progressive Democratic Front (PDF). He became the youngest Chief Minister of Maharashtra in 1978, at the age of 38.
Return to Congress
He returned to the Congress in the mid-1980s and was reappointed as Chief Minister of Maharashtra from 1988 to 1991 and again from 1993 to 1995.
Development and Reforms
During his tenure, Pawar focused on:
- Rural development
- Infrastructure and irrigation
- Industry promotion
- Handling law and order during the Mumbai riots of 1993
Union Minister and National Politics
Defence Minister of India (1991–1993)
Pawar was appointed as Defence Minister of India under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, where he handled key issues during a critical time post-economic liberalization.
Minister of Agriculture (2004–2014)
Under the UPA government led by Manmohan Singh, Pawar served as the Union Minister of Agriculture and played a key role in:
- Modernizing Indian agriculture
- Promoting food security
- Handling inflation and farmer distress
He was instrumental in launching schemes like:
- National Horticulture Mission
- Farmers’ loan waiver schemes
Formation of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)
Break from Congress in 1999
In 1999, Pawar, along with P.A. Sangma and Tariq Anwar, left the Congress due to opposition to Sonia Gandhi’s foreign origin and formed the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
Ideology and Growth of NCP
The NCP was built on the foundation of secularism, democracy, and nationalism. It gained strong ground in Maharashtra and played a crucial role in forming coalition governments.
Alliance with Congress
Despite the split, NCP formed alliances with Congress in Maharashtra and at the national level, including:
- UPA I & II (2004–2014)
- Maharashtra coalition governments (2004–2019)
Role in Maharashtra Politics (2019–2022)
Key Player in Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA)
After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections, Pawar masterminded the unlikely Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance between:
- Shiv Sena
- Congress
- NCP
This strategic move sidelined the BJP and brought Uddhav Thackeray to power as CM. Pawar played the role of mentor and strategist for the alliance.
Controversies and Criticism
Allegations of Corruption
Over the years, Pawar has been accused of:
- Irrigation scams in Maharashtra
- Links to the sugar lobby
- Real estate deals
However, he has never been convicted in any case and has consistently defended his actions.
Criticism from Rivals
He has often been labeled as:
- A manipulative power player
- Overly pragmatic in forming alliances
Despite criticisms, his political survivability has earned him both praise and suspicion.
Political Philosophy and Leadership Style
Pragmatism Over Ideology
Sharad Pawar is known for his pragmatic politics. He prioritizes regional development and coalition politics over rigid ideologies.
Mentoring Young Leaders
He has mentored many political leaders including:
- Ajit Pawar (his nephew)
- Supriya Sule (his daughter)
- Jayant Patil
- Chhagan Bhujbal
Personal Life
Family
Sharad Pawar is married to Pratibha Pawar, and they have one daughter, Supriya Sule, who is a Member of Parliament (MP) from Baramati.
Health Issues
In recent years, he has faced health challenges, including surgeries and age-related ailments, but continues to be politically active.
Legacy and Impact
Veteran Politician
Sharad Pawar is one of the few leaders in India who has served in both state and central governments with distinction.
Regional Champion
He has been a strong advocate for Maharashtra’s development, especially in agriculture and cooperative sectors.
Kingmaker in Coalitions
From the Third Front to UPA and MVA, Pawar has been a mastermind behind coalition politics.
Recent Developments (2023–2025)
NCP Split in 2023
In a shocking turn, Ajit Pawar rebelled and joined the BJP-led government in Maharashtra in 2023. The party split into two factions:
- Sharad Pawar faction
- Ajit Pawar faction
The Election Commission later gave the party name and symbol to Ajit Pawar, dealing a blow to Sharad Pawar’s legacy.
Rebuilding Phase
Despite the setback, Sharad Pawar refused to retire. He started rebuilding the party from scratch, focusing on grassroots connections and young leadership.
Conclusion
Sharad Pawar remains a towering figure in Indian politics. His journey from Baramati to the corridors of power in Delhi is a testament to his political skill, resilience, and commitment. As of 2025, even at the age of 84, he continues to influence political discourse and mentor future leaders. His name is synonymous with Maharashtra’s political evolution, and his legacy will endure for generations.
FAQs About Sharad Pawar
1. What is Sharad Pawar’s age in 2025?
Sharad Pawar is 84 years old in 2025.
2. Is Sharad Pawar still active in politics?
Yes, despite health challenges, he remains politically active and continues to rebuild the NCP.
3. Who is the daughter of Sharad Pawar?
Supriya Sule, Member of Parliament from Baramati, is his daughter.
4. What is Sharad Pawar’s educational qualification?
He graduated from Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC), Pune.
5. What party did Sharad Pawar form in 1999?
He founded the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).
