In Pics: Life and Career of former NCP supremo Sharad Pawar

During an event at the Yashwantrao Chavan Foundation centre in the city, Sharad Pawar, the President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), announced his resignation from the position on Tuesday. However, he made it clear that he has no plans to retire from active politics. The decision regarding the next party chief will be taken by the NCP working committee.

Sharad Pawar has had a long and successful career in politics, holding various positions in the government and being a key member of the NCP. Let's take a look at Sharad Pawar's career spanning over 50 years.

Political career

In 1967, Sharad Pawar commenced his political career by winning the election for a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from the Baramati constituency. Subsequently, he held multiple roles in the government, including the Minister of Defence and Minister of Agriculture. Following his departure from the Indian National Congress in 1999, he became one of the founding members of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and has since served as its President.

Leadership in Maharashtra

For many years, Sharad Pawar has served as a Member of Parliament (MP) and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA). During his tenure as the President of the NCP, the party has played a crucial role in the Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) government, which previously held power in Maharashtra.

Contributions to cricket and industry

In addition to his political career, Sharad Pawar has made significant contributions to the sports and industrial sectors. He has held various prestigious positions such as the Chief of Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) from 2005 to 2008, and the President of International Cricket Council (ICC) from 2010 to 2012. He has also served as the President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) and the Maratha Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI).

Awards and recognition

Sharad Pawar, who is acknowledged as a highly efficient and respected politician in India, was honoured with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan award in 2017, the second-highest civilian honour in the country.