Name: Trivendra Singh Rawat
Date of Birth: December 20, 1960
Place of Birth: Khairasain, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India
Occupation: Politician
Political Party: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
Position Held: Chief Minister of Uttarakhand (2017–2021)
Early Life and Education
Trivendra Singh Rawat was born into a Rajput family in the village of Khairasain, in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand (then part of Uttar Pradesh). Raised in a rural setting, he pursued his early education in local schools and later attended the Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University, where he graduated with a degree in Journalism. His educational background laid a foundation for his interest in public affairs and politics.
Early Political Career
Trivendra Singh Rawat’s political journey began in 1979 when he became associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), a Hindu nationalist organization. He served as a pracharak (full-time worker) for the RSS for several years, focusing on grassroots-level organizational work in the Garhwal region.
In 1989, Rawat formally entered politics by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), leveraging his experience with the RSS. He quickly rose through the party ranks due to his organizational skills and dedication. He played a key role in building the BJP’s presence in Uttarakhand, which was then part of Uttar Pradesh.
Role in Uttarakhand Statehood Movement
Trivendra Singh Rawat was an active participant in the movement for the creation of a separate state of Uttarakhand, which was carved out of Uttar Pradesh in 2000. His efforts and dedication were recognized within the party, and he was appointed as the state general secretary of the newly formed Uttarakhand BJP unit. His involvement in the statehood movement positioned him as an emerging leader in Uttarakhand politics.
Legislative Career
In 2002, Trivendra Singh Rawat was elected as a Member of the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly from the Doiwala constituency. He was re-elected from the same constituency in 2007. During his tenure, he served as the Minister of Agriculture in the BJP-led government of Uttarakhand, focusing on agricultural reforms, rural development, and the promotion of organic farming practices.
Rise to Chief Minister
In the 2017 Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly elections, Trivendra Singh Rawat was again elected from the Doiwala constituency. The BJP won a decisive majority in the elections, and Rawat was chosen by the party leadership to serve as the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand. He was sworn in as the 8th Chief Minister on March 18, 2017.
Tenure as Chief Minister (2017–2021)
During his tenure as Chief Minister, Rawat focused on various developmental initiatives, including improving the state’s infrastructure, promoting tourism, and enhancing health and education services. Key initiatives and policies during his tenure included:
- Pension Schemes: He launched several pension schemes for senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities.
- Health and Education: Rawat’s government aimed to improve healthcare facilities in remote areas and strengthen the education system by increasing the number of schools and teachers in rural regions.
- Infrastructure Development: He focused on improving road connectivity and infrastructure development, particularly in the hilly terrains of Uttarakhand, to boost tourism and local economies.
- Combating Corruption: Rawat’s administration was marked by efforts to reduce corruption within the state government, including the introduction of various digital and transparent governance practices.
- Environmental Conservation: Given Uttarakhand’s rich natural heritage, his government took steps to promote sustainable development, particularly in promoting organic farming and implementing policies for afforestation and environmental conservation.
Resignation and Reasons
Trivendra Singh Rawat resigned from the position of Chief Minister on March 9, 2021. His resignation came amid growing dissent within the BJP’s state unit and pressure from the central leadership. Critics pointed to his handling of certain governance issues, lack of effective communication, and allegations of administrative inaction during crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Rawat stepped down, citing the party’s desire for a change in leadership ahead of the 2022 Assembly elections.
Post-Resignation Activities
After resigning, Trivendra Singh Rawat continued to be an active member of the BJP. He remained involved in political activities, focusing on strengthening the party’s base in Uttarakhand and working on organizational tasks assigned by the central leadership. Despite stepping down as Chief Minister, he has continued to play a significant role in state politics.
Personal Life
Trivendra Singh Rawat is married to Sunita Rawat, and they have two daughters. Known for his simple lifestyle, Rawat is often seen as a grassroots leader who remains connected with the people of his constituency. He is also a devout follower of Hinduism and has maintained close ties with various social and religious organizations.
Controversies
Throughout his political career, Trivendra Singh Rawat has faced several controversies, including:
- Alleged Corruption: His tenure as Chief Minister saw allegations related to favoritism and corruption, particularly concerning a land deal involving a relative. However, no substantial evidence was brought against him in a court of law.
- Handling of the COVID-19 Pandemic: His government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic drew criticism, particularly over the perceived lack of preparedness and inadequate healthcare infrastructure in remote parts of the state.
Legacy
Trivendra Singh Rawat is regarded as a committed politician who has played a crucial role in the development of Uttarakhand, especially in promoting agricultural and rural development. Despite facing challenges and controversies, his tenure as Chief Minister is noted for efforts toward infrastructural development, combating corruption, and environmental conservation.