Early Life and Education
Born on July 1, 1972, in Hanol, a village in the Bhavnagar district of Gujarat, Dr. Mandaviya hails from a modest background. He pursued his early education in his native village and later graduated with a Master’s degree in Political Science from Bhavnagar University.
Political Career
Dr. Mandaviya’s political journey commenced in 1996 when he joined the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), the youth wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His leadership skills led to his appointment as the President of the Palitana Taluka BJP in 1998. In 2002, he was elected as the youngest Member of the Gujarat Legislative Assembly from the Palitana constituency, serving until 2007. He further enhanced his political career by serving as the Chairman of Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation Limited in 2011. In 2012, he was elected to the Rajya Sabha and re-elected in 2018. He joined the Narendra Modi government in 2016 as a junior minister.
Major Achievements
Throughout his career, Dr. Mandaviya has been instrumental in launching several initiatives:
- Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Campaigns: In 2004, he organized a 123 km long Padyatra titled “Kanya Kelavani Jyot Padyatra” to promote girls’ education in 45 educationally backward villages of his constituency. In 2006, he led a 127 km Padyatra connecting 52 villages, focusing on the themes “Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao, Vyasan Hatao” (Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child, Eliminate Addiction).
- E-Clearance for Afterlife Remains Portal: In October 2023, he initiated this portal to streamline the clearance procedures for the timely transportation of human remains across international borders.
- Khelo India Rising Talent Identification (KIRTI) Programme: In July 2024, he led the launch of Phase 2 of this program in New Delhi, aiming to identify young sports talent using modern technology, with a target of 20 lakh assessments across India in the fiscal year 2024-25.
- eShram – One Stop Solution: In October 2024, he launched this platform in New Delhi to simplify the registration process for unorganized workers and connect them to various government welfare schemes, providing seamless access to social security benefits.
- Union Labour Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced that the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) will launch its advanced software system, EPFO 3.0, by June 2025. Speaking in Delhi, he stated that the new system will be on par with banking systems, ensuring a more user-friendly website and enhanced services for users. (The Hindu)
- Inauguration of Medical Facilities in Madhya Pradesh: In early 2024, Dr. Mandaviya inaugurated the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) Sub Zonal office and the Central Drug Testing Laboratory (CDTL) in Indore. These facilities aim to improve the quality of medicines and facilitate business operations in the pharmaceutical sector. Elets eHealth
- Launch of ‘eShram – One Stop Solution’: In October 2024, Dr. Mandaviya introduced the ‘eShram – One Stop Solution’ platform in New Delhi. This initiative simplifies the registration process for unorganized workers, connecting them to various government welfare schemes and providing seamless access to social security benefits. The platform integrates data from multiple central ministries and schemes into a unified portal.
- Promotion of Digital Health Innovations: Dr. Mandaviya has been instrumental in advancing digital health transformations in India, particularly through the flagship Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. This initiative aims to create a comprehensive digital health ecosystem, enhancing the efficiency and accessibility of healthcare services across the nation.
- Economic Times Health
- Advocacy for Youth Engagement in National Development: Emphasizing the vital role of youth in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India by 2047, Dr. Mandaviya has urged youth organizations to foster empowerment through innovative solutions, technology-driven platforms, and ground-level engagement.
- Press Information Bureau
Key Political Initiatives
Dr. Mandaviya has been at the forefront of several key initiatives:
- Padyatras for Social Causes: He has organized multiple foot marches to raise awareness on issues like girls’ education and addiction elimination.
- Advocacy for Girls’ Education: His efforts in promoting girls’ education have been widely recognized, including organizing campaigns and padyatras to spread awareness.
Controversies
Photograph with Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh: In October 2021, Mandaviya faced criticism for sharing a photograph with a bedridden former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during a visit to AIIMS. Critics argued that the image was in poor taste, considering Singh’s health condition.
Mockery of English Proficiency: Mandaviya has been subjected to ridicule for his English language skills. Such mockery has been criticized as elitist, highlighting societal biases against individuals from non-English-speaking backgrounds.
Statement on Vinesh Phogat’s Disqualification: As Union Sports Minister, Mandaviya made a statement in the Lok Sabha regarding wrestler Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification from the Olympics due to being overweight. The Congress party sought the withdrawal of his remarks, indicating dissatisfaction with his handling of the issue.
Social Media
Personal Life
Dr. Mandaviya is known for his simple lifestyle and dedication to public service. He is married to Geetaben Mandaviya, and they have two children.
Legacy and Future Prospects
Dr. Mandaviya’s initiatives have left a lasting impact on various sectors, particularly in health, labor, and sports. His commitment to social causes and public welfare continues to inspire many, and his future endeavors are anticipated to further contribute to India’s development.
Promises and Future Commitments
Dr. Mandaviya has consistently emphasized his commitment to improving public health, promoting education, and enhancing sports infrastructure in India. His recent initiatives, such as the KIRTI programme and the eShram platform, reflect his dedication to these causes.
Support for Para Athletes: In September 2024, during a felicitation ceremony for India’s Paralympic medalists, Mandaviya pledged comprehensive support for para sports. He emphasized the goal of surpassing the medal tally at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
Advancement in Tuberculosis Testing: Mandaviya announced plans to introduce a ‘Made in India’ TB infection skin test kit, reinforcing India’s commitment to eradicating tuberculosis.
Commitment to Malaria Elimination: At the Asia Pacific Leaders’ Conclave on Malaria Elimination, Mandaviya stated, “India is committed to sharing our resources, knowledge, and learnings with other countries in our endeavour to eliminate Malaria.”
Support for Deaf Athletes: As the Sports Minister, Mandaviya assured equal treatment for deaf athletes, emphasizing the government’s commitment to providing necessary facilities and support.
Videos and Interviews