Early Life and Education
Born on September 23, 1974, in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Poonamben Maadam completed her Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) degree from Gujarat University in 1995.
Political Career
Poonamben Maadam’s political lineage traces back to her grandfather, who served as a Member of Parliament, and her father, Hematbhai Maadam, who was a Member of the Legislative Assembly. She began her political career with the Indian National Congress (INC) but later joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In 2014, she was elected to the 16th Lok Sabha from the Jamnagar constituency and was re-elected in 2019 to the 17th Lok Sabha.
Major Achievements
Throughout her tenure, Poonamben Maadam has been actively involved in various parliamentary committees, including the Committee on Empowerment of Women and the Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas. Her participation in these committees underscores her commitment to addressing issues related to women’s empowerment and energy resources.
Key Political Initiatives
Poonamben Maadam has been instrumental in advocating for infrastructure development in her constituency, focusing on improving road connectivity, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. She has also emphasized the importance of women’s empowerment and has been involved in initiatives aimed at enhancing women’s participation in various sectors.
Contributions
As a member of the Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas, Poonamben Maadam has contributed to discussions and policies related to India’s energy sector. Her insights have been valuable in shaping policies that aim to ensure energy security and sustainable development.
MP Poonam Maadam supported the inauguration of a newly constructed health center in Dhutarpur village, aimed at enhancing rural health services. State Cabinet Minister Shri Raghavji Patel, along with Kalavad Assembly MLA Meghjibhai Chavda and other local leaders, attended the event.
Social Media and Public Engagement
Personal Life
Poonamben Maadam is known for her dedication to social work. In her leisure time, she enjoys walking, reading, and traveling. She is also a member of the Lions Club of Jamnagar (Main), reflecting her commitment to community service.
Controversy
Poonam Maadam, BJP’s Jamnagar candidate, faced protests from the Rajput community over comments made by BJP’s Rajkot candidate, Parshottam Rupala, who had criticized the former Maharajas for their ties with the British. This angered the Kshatriya community, leading to protests during Maadam’s campaign. Youths brandished black flags, and Maadam confronted them, urging them to stop. Police detained some protesters, but the unrest made her campaigning challenging, with one event being disrupted just 100 meters from her residence. (New Indian Express)
Rivaba Jadeja, BJP legislator from Jamnagar, stirred controversy after a heated altercation with MP Poonam Maadam and Mayor Bina Kothari during a public event. The disagreement began when Jadeja removed her footwear to pay respects to martyrs, a gesture she felt was more respectful. Maadam, in response, made a remark about people “acting over smart” by removing their footwear, which Jadeja interpreted as an insult. Jadeja confronted Maadam, calling her comment disrespectful, and asked her to clarify whom it was directed at. The altercation was centered on this interaction and did not involve Mayor Kothari. (Hindustan Times)
Promises and Future Commitments
Poonamben Maadam has pledged to continue her efforts in improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education in her constituency. She is committed to advocating for policies that promote sustainable development and women’s empowerment, aiming to create a more inclusive and prosperous society.
MP Poonam Maadam, supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, emphasized Gujarat’s transformation into a “water-rich” state. During the inauguration of several development projects worth over Rs. 4800 crore for Saurashtra, including Jamnagar and Devbhoomi Dwarka, Maadam highlighted the importance of water conservation. The Prime Minister also inaugurated the Bharat Mata Sarovar in Amreli, a reservoir designed to store 7 million cubic feet of water, marking a significant step toward improving water resources and ensuring sustainable growth in Gujarat.
Videos and Interviews