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Vasundhara Raje: Former CM of Rajasthan Turns 70, Today

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Vasundhara Raje Scindia is a prominent Indian politician who has served as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan twice, from 2003 to 2008 and from 2013 to 2018. She is a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has been active in politics for more than three decades. Raje is widely regarded as a strong and dynamic leader who has played a significant role in the growth and development of Rajasthan. This article provides an overview of Raje’s life, career, achievements, and controversies.

2. Early Life and Education

Vasundhara Raje was born on 8 March 1953 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, to Vijayaraje Scindia and Jivaji Rao Scindia, both of whom were prominent politicians. Raje was educated at the Sophia College for Women in Mumbai and later at the Centre for European Studies at the University of London. She also attended the Maharani Gayatri Devi Girls’ Public School in Jaipur.

3. Political Career

Rise in the BJP

Raje’s political career began in 1984 when she joined the BJP. She was elected to the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly in 1985 and served as a member of the opposition for several years. In 1990, she was appointed as the National Vice President of the BJP’s youth wing.

First Stint as Chief Minister

In 2003, Vasundhara Raje was elected as the Chief Minister of Rajasthan for the first time, defeating the Indian National Congress. During her first term as Chief Minister, Raje implemented several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting the economic growth and development of the state. She focused on improving infrastructure, including roads, electricity, and water supply. She also launched several welfare schemes for the poor, such as free medical treatment and education for girls.

Re-election as Chief Minister

In 2013, Raje was re-elected as Chief Minister of Rajasthan, defeating Congress once again. During her second term as Chief Minister, Raje continued her focus on infrastructure development and welfare schemes. She launched several new initiatives, such as the Bhamashah Yojana, which aimed to provide financial and social security to women and families. She also implemented several reforms aimed at simplifying the process of doing business in Rajasthan and attracting investment.

Policies and Initiatives

Vasundhara Raje’s tenure as Chief Minister was marked by several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting development and growth. Some of her notable policies and initiatives include:

  • promote industrial growth: It included several incentives for businesses, such as tax exemptions and subsidies.
  • Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan: This initiative aimed to conserve water and promote water harvesting. It focused on creating check dams, ponds, and other structures to capture rainwater.
  • Janani Suraksha Yojana: This scheme provided financial assistance to pregnant women to ensure safe delivery and maternal health.
  • Bhamashah Yojana: This initiative aimed to provide financial and social security to women and families. It involved issuing smart cards to beneficiaries to facilitate cash transfers and other benefits.

Overall, Raje’s policies and initiatives were aimed at promoting growth, development, and welfare in Rajasthan.

4. Personal Life

Vasundhara Raje is married to Hemant Singh, a member of the royal family of Dholpur. The couple has one son, Dushyant Singh, who is also a politician and a member of parliament. Raje is a follower of Hinduism and is known for her interest in art and culture. She is also an avid reader and enjoys literature and history.

5. Awards and Recognitions

During her political career, Vasundhara Raje has received several awards and recognitions. In 2007, she was named the “Outstanding Parliamentarian” by the Indian Parliamentary Group. In 2018, she received the “Chief Minister of the Year” award at the India Today State of the States Conclave. Raje has also been featured in Forbes’ list of the world’s 100 most powerful women.

6. Criticisms and Controversies

Vasundhara Raje’s tenure as Chief Minister was not without controversy. She was criticized for her handling of the Gujjar agitation in Rajasthan, which resulted in violent clashes between the Gujjar community and the police. Raje was also accused of favoritism and corruption in the allocation of mining leases in Rajasthan. In addition, her government was criticized for the handling of the Barmer refinery project and the delay in the completion of the Jaipur Metro.

7. Legacy

Vasundhara Raje’s legacy as Chief Minister of Rajasthan is marked by her focus on development and growth. She was instrumental in implementing several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth, infrastructure development, and welfare schemes. Raje’s tenure also saw the emergence of Rajasthan as a hub for investment and development. However, her legacy is also marked by controversy and criticism over certain policies and initiatives.

8. Conclusion

Vasundhara Raje Scindia is a prominent Indian politician who has played a significant role in the growth and development of Rajasthan. Her tenure as Chief Minister was marked by several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting growth, development, and welfare. While her legacy is not without controversy, Raje’s contributions to the development of Rajasthan cannot be ignored.

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