Ahmedabad, June 12 – Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, who tragically lost his life in the Air India plane crash near Ahmedabad on Thursday, was widely respected for his calm temperament and firm administrative approach. He was 68 years old.
Rupani served as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from August 2016 to September 2021, during which he played a significant role in steering the state through the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His leadership during this period was marked by decisive governance and steady public communication.
A politically active student during his college years, Rupani was known for leading several movements and began his political journey as a member of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad. He was also among those who protested against the Emergency in 1975 and served a one-year jail term in Bhavnagar for his participation.
His formal entry into public service began in 1987 when he was elected as a corporator in the Rajkot Municipal Corporation, eventually serving as the city’s mayor. Between 2006 and 2012, Rupani also represented Gujarat in the Rajya Sabha.
During his tenure as Chief Minister, the state witnessed key developments including the launch of the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 and focused initiatives for the upliftment of tribal communities. His resignation in September 2021 paved the way for Bhupendra Patel to assume the role of Chief Minister ahead of the state elections.
As per agency report, Vijay Rupani’s legacy is remembered for his composed leadership and commitment to public welfare, leaving behind a record of governance that earned both political and public respect.
