In Maharashtra’s political corridors, it was more than just a cabinet reshuffle—it was a nod to the roots of farming. Dattatray Bharane, once the state’s Sports Minister, is now Maharashtra’s new Agriculture Minister, replacing Manikrao Kokate, who will now head the Sports Ministry.
Both leaders are from the Ajit Pawar-led faction of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Bharane represents Indapur (Pune district), while Kokate hails from Sinnar (Nashik district).
A Farmer’s Son at the Helm
Soon after the announcement, Bharane took to X (formerly Twitter), expressing gratitude to CM Devendra Fadnavis, and Deputy CMs Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde.
“I was born and raised in a farmer’s family and have experienced every aspect of agriculture. That is why I understand the sorrows, difficulties, and expectations of farmers with all my heart. Now, through this position, I have the opportunity to work for their justice, rights, and progress,” he wrote.
He emphasized that respect for farmers, sustainable agriculture, and rural prosperity would be his priorities. “I will ensure farmers’ voices are heard in every government policy,” he added.
Why the Change?
The reshuffle came after Manikrao Kokate faced criticism over a viral video allegedly showing him playing an online rummy game during a legislative session. Kokate also stirred controversy earlier this year for comments comparing farmers to beggars.
Bharane’s Journey So Far
Bharane’s rise in politics has been steady. In the 2024 Assembly elections, he defeated NCP (SP) leader Harshavardhan Patil by 19,410 votes, continuing a winning streak that began in 2014. His political journey includes stints as:
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Minister of State for Public Works, Soil and Water Conservation, Forests, Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, Fisheries, General Administration, and OBC Welfare.
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Leadership roles that connected him deeply with rural development and farming communities.
For many, his appointment as Agriculture Minister feels symbolic—a leader who has walked the fields he now governs.
A Familiar Voice for Farmers
In his tweet, Bharane underlined his rural upbringing and pledged to focus on farmer welfare. His words resonated widely among farmers’ groups, who see hope in having “a farmer’s son in the agriculture chair.”
With Maharashtra’s agriculture sector facing challenges from climate change, market volatility, and rural distress, Bharane’s appointment is both a political message and a test. Can a leader who has seen farming struggles firsthand bridge the gap between policy and the ploughed field?
For farmers, the answer can’t come soon enough.
