Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday extended warm birthday wishes to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, praising his relentless efforts toward the state’s progress. In a message shared on social media platform X, the Prime Minister highlighted Shinde’s commitment to fulfilling the vision of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray and late leader Anand Dighe.
Describing Shinde as a leader “working tirelessly” for Maharashtra’s development, PM Modi prayed for his long life and good health. Several senior leaders echoed the sentiment, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who commended Shinde’s work in public welfare and governance.
Born on February 9, 1964, in Satara district’s Dare village, Eknath Shinde rose from humble beginnings. After his family moved to Thane, he discontinued formal education early to support his family, working as an auto-rickshaw driver before gradually re-entering academics and earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in 2020.
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Shinde’s political journey began in the early 1980s under the mentorship of Anand Dighe, emerging as a key Shiv Sena organiser in Thane. His rise through municipal politics, including serving as corporator and Leader of the House in the Thane Municipal Corporation, cemented his grassroots influence before entering the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in 2004.
Over the years, Shinde held several key ministerial portfolios, including Public Works, Public Health, Urban Development, and Home Affairs. His administrative experience and growing rapport with BJP leaders became evident during Devendra Fadnavis’ first tenure as Chief Minister.
In 2022, Shinde led a dramatic split within the Shiv Sena, ending the Maha Vikas Aghadi government and forming a new alliance with the BJP. After serving as Chief Minister, he took oath as Deputy Chief Minister in 2024 under the Fadnavis-led government. His faction’s recognition by the Election Commission and electoral success in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls further consolidated his political standing in Maharashtra.
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