From Behind the Scenes to History Maker: Sunetra Pawar – Maharashtra's Trailblazing First Woman Deputy Chief Minister


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Sunetra Pawar (born Sunetra Patil on October 18, 1963) has emerged as one of the most influential women in contemporary Indian politics. As the widow of the late Ajit Pawar — a towering figure in Maharashtra politics who served multiple terms as Deputy Chief Minister — Sunetra stepped into the spotlight following a tragic plane crash in 2026 that claimed her husband's life. In a remarkable turn, she was unanimously elected leader of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislature party and sworn in as Maharashtra's first-ever woman Deputy Chief Minister, breaking gender barriers in a state long dominated by male leaders.


Early Life and Family Roots


Hailing from Osmanabad, Maharashtra, Sunetra comes from a strong political lineage. Her father, Padamsinh Patil, was a respected former minister in Maharashtra and a Lok Sabha MP. This background naturally immersed her in public service from a young age. She pursued higher education in Political Science and Economics, earning a master's degree from Mooljee Jetha College in Jalgaon. Her arranged marriage to Ajit Pawar on December 30, 1985, connected her to the powerful Pawar family, led by her uncle-in-law Sharad Pawar, one of India's most enduring political patriarchs.


The couple shared over four decades of partnership, raising two sons: Parth Pawar (who has dabbled in politics) and Jay Pawar (who manages family business interests in Mumbai and Baramati). The family has faced both triumphs and tragedies, including recent personal milestones like Jay's marriage in 2025 — only for the joy to be overshadowed by Ajit's sudden demise shortly after.


A Quiet Powerhouse: Social Work and Entrepreneurship

Before entering frontline politics, Sunetra was known for her low-profile yet impactful contributions. In 2010, she founded the Environmental Forum of India (EFOI), an NGO focused on organic farming, eco-villages, sustainable practices, and environmental conservation. Her dedication earned her the "Green Warrior Award" and recognition as a champion of green initiatives in rural Maharashtra.


She also chairs the Baramati Textile Company (sometimes referred to as Baramati Hi-Tech Textile Park), blending business acumen with community development. Additionally, she serves as a trustee for Vidya Pratishthan, an educational trust in Baramati founded by Sharad Pawar that educates over 25,000 students — highlighting her commitment to education and youth empowerment.


Since 2011, she has been a member of the World Entrepreneurship Forum in France, contributing to global conversations on sustainable development.

Political Rise and Historic Milestone

Sunetra's formal political entry came in 2024 when she was elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha (upper house of Parliament) from Maharashtra on an NCP ticket. Affectionately called "Vahini" (sister-in-law) in political circles, she was her husband's steadfast supporter, often working behind the scenes in Baramati and across the state.


Following Ajit Pawar's death in the 2026 Baramati Learjet 45 crash, Sunetra was thrust into leadership. Her unanimous selection as NCP legislature party leader and subsequent appointment as Deputy Chief Minister marked a watershed moment — making her the first woman to hold the position in Maharashtra's history. This transition underscores the Pawar family's enduring influence and Sunetra's readiness to carry forward the legacy amid grief and public scrutiny.


Interesting Facts About Sunetra Pawar


  • First Woman Deputy CM of Maharashtra — A groundbreaking achievement in a state with a rich but male-heavy political history.

  • Environmental Pioneer — Founded an NGO in 2010 that promotes organic farming and eco-friendly villages long before sustainability became a mainstream political talking point.
  • Global Recognition — Serves as a Think Tank member for the World Entrepreneurship Forum in France since 2011.

  • Educational Impact — As trustee of Vidya Pratishthan, she helps shape education for thousands in her home region of Baramati.

  • Family Dynasty — Married into the Pawar family (related to Sharad Pawar), she now leads a key faction after personal tragedy.

  • Business Leader — Chairs a textile company, showing her blend of industrial and social roles.

  • Affectionate Nickname — Widely known as "Vahini" in Maharashtra, reflecting her approachable image within political and community circles.


Sunetra Pawar's journey from supportive spouse and social activist to one of Maharashtra's top leaders is inspiring. In an era of dynamic politics, she represents resilience, sustainability, and women's empowerment — proving that quiet strength can lead to historic change.