As he turned 81, NCP president Sharad Pawar — one of the seniormost politicians in India — asked party workers to adapt to the changing socio-political scenario but also stick to the basics.
The statement assumes importance as Pawar, who has relationships across party lines, is working with like-minded politicians and parties to forge an Opposition alliance ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha polls.
“The vision of Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Mahatma Jotiba Phule and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, who followed the path of social reforms would continue to guide us,” Pawar said addressing a felicitation function on Sunday.
Pawar said that while his party – that he formed in 1999 – may be small, it has aimed for big long-term programmes. “It is unique in many respects,” said the three-time Union minister and four-term Maharashtra chief minister.
"Birthdays are an important milestone in one's personal life. My 50th, 60th and 75th birthdays have been celebrated publicly. Even though I didn't want a celebration on my 81st birthday, I have come (to the event) because the party wanted," he said.
Pawar went on to add that December 12 is an important date for him. “Not only because it is my birthday, but because it is also my mother's birthday. December 12 is also the birthday of my nephew and niece. My wife Pratibha's birthday is on December 13," he said.
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