The 2024 elections in Maharashtra have brought several new and emerging leaders into the spotlight. These individuals represent a new generation of politicians who are poised to shape the future of the state’s political landscape. Here are some of the notable new faces:
Contents
1. Navneet Kaur Rana (BJP)
- Constituency: Amravati
- Background: Navneet Kaur Rana, who was an Independent candidate in 2019, has since joined the BJP. She is known for her strong grassroots connection and has been a vocal advocate for local issues in Amravati.
- Role and Influence: Rana’s ability to secure a win in a key constituency like Amravati highlights her growing influence and potential as a significant political player in Maharashtra.
2. Piyush Goyal (BJP)
- Constituency: Mumbai North
- Background: Union Minister Piyush Goyal made his debut in the Lok Sabha elections from Mumbai North. Known for his administrative acumen and experience in the central government, Goyal’s entry into Maharashtra politics is significant.
- Role and Influence: Goyal’s victory in Mumbai North underscores his appeal and the strategic importance of his role in the BJP’s plans for Maharashtra.
3. Varsha Gaikwad (Congress)
- Constituency: Mumbai North Central
- Background: A seasoned politician, Varsha Gaikwad has been a prominent figure in Mumbai’s political landscape. Her recent victory in Mumbai North Central further cements her position as a key leader in the Congress party.
- Role and Influence: Gaikwad’s focus on education and social welfare policies continues to resonate with voters, making her a significant player in Maharashtra politics.
4. Praniti Shinde (Congress)
- Constituency: Solapur
- Background: Daughter of former Union Minister Sushilkumar Shinde, Praniti Shinde has been an MLA and recently won the Solapur Lok Sabha seat. Her victory marks a significant comeback for the Congress in this region.
- Role and Influence: Shinde’s focus on social justice and development issues has strengthened her political standing and influence in Maharashtra.
5. Smita Wagh (BJP)
- Constituency: Jalgaon
- Background: Smita Wagh, the widow of late MLA Uday Patil, secured a comfortable win in Jalgaon. Her leadership and focus on local development issues have made her a significant figure in the BJP’s political strategy.
- Role and Influence: Wagh’s ability to maintain BJP’s stronghold in Jalgaon highlights her potential as an emerging leader in Maharashtra.
6. Rohit Pawar (NCP)
- Constituency: Karjat-Jamkhed
- Background: Grandnephew of Sharad Pawar, Rohit Pawar has been actively involved in politics and recently won the Karjat-Jamkhed seat. His entry into politics marks the continuation of the Pawar family’s political legacy.
- Role and Influence: Rohit Pawar’s focus on youth issues and development projects positions him as a promising leader within the NCP and Maharashtra politics.
7. Shrikant Shinde (Shiv Sena – Shinde Faction)
- Constituency: Kalyan
- Background: Son of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Shrikant Shinde has won his seat with a substantial margin, indicating his growing influence and potential as a future leader in the state.
- Role and Influence: Shinde’s leadership and focus on local development projects have strengthened his political standing in Maharashtra.
8. Amit Deshmukh (Congress)
- Constituency: Latur
- Background: Son of late Maharashtra CM Vilasrao Deshmukh, Amit Deshmukh, along with his brother Dhiraj, played a crucial role in the Congress’s victory in Latur. His leadership and campaign strategies have been instrumental in reviving the party’s fortunes in the region.
- Role and Influence: Deshmukh’s focus on local issues and effective campaigning have positioned him as a key leader in Maharashtra politics.
These emerging leaders represent a new wave of political talent in Maharashtra. Their diverse backgrounds and focus on local issues and development projects make them significant players in the state’s political landscape. As they continue to build their political careers, they are likely to play crucial roles in shaping the future of Maharashtra.