Mumbai, Jan 30 (NationPress) Sunetra Ajit Pawar, fondly referred to as Vahini, is poised to embark on a new chapter as she prepares to take on the role of NCP legislature party leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister. This transition follows the tragic passing of her husband, Ajit Pawar, who lost his life in a plane crash in Baramati.

She is set to make history as the first woman to hold the position of deputy chief minister, thereby paving a unique path in the political landscape of the state. Her swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for Saturday evening.

On June 18, 2024, Sunetra Pawar was elected unopposed as a member of the Rajya Sabha, although she currently does not hold a position in either the state assembly or council.

She is expected to secure a seat in the Baramati assembly during the upcoming by-election, which will occur following the death of Ajit Pawar, who was elected from this constituency in November 2024.

Sunetra Pawar is dedicated to sustainable development, environmental conservation, and rural empowerment. Her efforts have established her as a key player in numerous initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive and sustainable growth in India. In 2010, she founded a non-governmental organization focused on enhancing environmental awareness and building eco-conscious communities.

Under her guidance, the organization introduced the eco-village model in India, an innovative strategy designed to meld ecological practices with rural development. This initiative has made substantial strides in transforming rural areas into self-sufficient and environmentally considerate communities.

A committed environmental advocate, she has spearheaded extensive grassroots efforts targeting biodiversity conservation, safeguarding endangered species, managing water resources, and mitigating drought. Her remarkable contributions have earned her the esteemed “Green Warrior Award”.

In addition to her environmental work, Sunetra Pawar plays a crucial role in education as a trustee of Vidya Pratishthan, a respected institution dedicated to delivering quality education and fostering academic excellence in rural areas.

Her international engagement is equally impressive, as she has served as a Think Tank member of the World Entrepreneurship Forum in France since 2011, representing India in global discussions on sustainability and social innovation.

Hailing from a family of agriculturists, Sunetra Pawar has forged her own path as a social and business entrepreneur, passionately involved in initiatives that empower communities and advocate for sustainable living.