Early Life and Education
Narayan Tatu Rane was born on April 10, 1952, in Bombay, Maharashtra. He dropped out of school after the 11th grade. Before entering politics, he ran a chicken shop for a living.
Political Career and Rise to Prominence
Rane’s political journey began in 1985 when he was elected as a Municipal Councillor in Chembur, Mumbai. By 1990, he transitioned into state politics as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, a position he held for nearly 25 years. He joined the Shiv Sena, rapidly ascending within the party and eventually becoming the Chief Minister of Maharashtra in 1999, though for a brief tenure. After notable achievements and a dynamic role in state politics, Rane left Shiv Sena in 2005 and joined the Congress Party, where he continued to hold significant cabinet portfolios, including Minister of Revenue and Industries.
In 2017, Rane founded his own party, the Maharashtra Swabhiman Paksha, and later merged with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). By 2018, he was appointed to the Rajya Sabha as a BJP member, and in July 2021, he was named the Union Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s cabinet. In this role, he has focused on increasing MSME competitiveness and job creation across India.
Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha: Representing the Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg constituency since June 2024
Major Achievements and Contributions
Throughout his career, Rane has taken on pivotal responsibilities. His tenure as Chief Minister of Maharashtra, though short, was marked by efforts to improve state governance. As MSME Minister, Rane has introduced initiatives to support small businesses, particularly through programs aimed at strengthening self-reliant economic growth. He also championed the PM Vishwakarma Yojana to aid skilled craftsmen and artisans, enhancing local employment opportunities.
Key Political Initiatives and Developmental Promises
Rane’s ongoing projects include efforts to uplift Maharashtra’s coastal economy and empower small entrepreneurs. Recently, he pledged to boost resources for MSME infrastructure and streamline credit access. His initiatives also address youth employment and skill development, which he considers crucial for India’s economic growth. He remains vocal about policies that focus on sustainable development and equitable resource distribution.
Social Media and Public Engagement
Personal Life
Rane is married to Neelam Rane, and they have two sons, Nilesh and Nitesh Rane, both of whom have pursued political careers in Maharashtra. Known for his interest in cricket and reading, Rane also represented the Income Tax Department in cricket before entering politics, a testament to his multifaceted talents and competitive spirit.
Controversies
Juhu Bungalow Controversy: Rane’s Juhu bungalow in Mumbai has been a focal point for legal disputes. The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) issued demolition notices, alleging illegal construction activities on his property, further intensifying tensions between Rane and Shiv Sena. This dispute is reflective of Rane’s longstanding political rivalry with Shiv Sena.
“Slap CM” Remark: In 2021, Rane stirred controversy with a comment suggesting he would “slap” then-Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray over COVID-19 protocols. The remark led to his arrest by Maharashtra police, sparking a widespread political uproar and drawing criticisms from several Shiv Sena leaders.
Alleged Irregularities in Kolhapur Real Estate Projects: Allegations emerged around his association with real estate projects in Kolhapur, claiming irregularities in land acquisitions and building permits. These allegations have yet to lead to formal charges, but they added fuel to the fire of political scrutiny Rane faces from opposition parties.
Promises and Future Commitments
Revamped CGTMSE Scheme: Narayan Rane recently launched an upgraded Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) scheme, intended to provide easier access to collateral-free credit for MSMEs. This update enhances guarantee coverage, which encourages financial institutions to increase lending to small businesses, especially across rural and underserved areas. The scheme’s revised structure is expected to generate employment and spur economic growth. The Press Information Bureau highlighted these efforts as part of the government’s push for inclusive development through MSMEs (Press Information Bureau)
Additional MSME Initiatives: Rane also initiated the MSME Competitive (LEAN) Scheme, which aims to improve the operational efficiency of smaller businesses, thus ensuring their sustainability and competitiveness. This program, under the MSME Champions framework, reflects the government’s commitment to empowering MSMEs, emphasizing their role in employment creation and economic growth. (PIB)
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