Sharad Pawar, 83, announces political retirement plans, focuses on mentoring youth

Sharad Pawar, a stalwart of Maharashtra politics, has announced his decision to step back from electoral politics. Speaking at a rally in Baramati, Pawar, 83, declared that he would not contest any future elections and instead focus on mentoring the younger generation. This marks a significant moment in his illustrious career spanning over six decades.

Addressing his supporters while campaigning for his grandnephew Yugendra Pawar, he said, "I am not in power. I am definitely in Rajya Sabha. There is still one-and-a-half years left. But after 1.5 years, I will have to think about whether to go to Rajya Sabha or not. I will not contest Lok Sabha. I will not contest any election."

Despite his retirement from contesting elections, Pawar emphasized that he would continue his service to the people. "I have contested 14 times. You (people) did not send me home even once. You elected me every time. But, I will have to stop somewhere... I will have to bring the new generation forward. This does not mean that I have left social work. But I do not want power. I will keep serving and working for the people," he added.

Sharad Pawar's political journey is marked by significant achievements. He served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra four times and held key Union Cabinet positions, including Defence and Agriculture, during the UPA regime. In 1999, he founded the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), which faced a split in 2023 when his nephew Ajit Pawar formed a separate faction.

Last year, Sharad Pawar dismissed retirement rumors by stating he was "neither tired nor retired," countering Ajit Pawar's suggestion that he should retire due to his age.

Reflecting on his career, Pawar said, "You have made me the Chief Minister not once or twice but four times. You elected me in 1967, and I worked here for 25 years before moving on to work for Maharashtra. Now, it's time to prepare for the future. We need to groom leadership that will work for the next 30 years."

As Pawar steps back from electoral politics, his legacy will continue through his mentorship and ongoing dedication to public service.