S.B. Chavan

A Distinguished Statesman

Shankarrao Chavan was an eminent political leader, outstanding parliamentarian, and able administrator who played a significant role in shaping modern Maharashtra and contributing to national governance. Revered as “Marathwadyache Shilpkar” (Architect of Marathwada), he left behind a legacy of dedicated public service and development-oriented leadership.

Early Life and Education

Shri Shankarrao Bhaurao Chavan was born on 14 July 1920 at Paithan in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra to Shri Bhaurao Chavan and Shrimati Laxmibai Chavan. He graduated from University of Madras and later obtained a law degree from Osmania University.

From his student days, he actively participated in the freedom struggle in the erstwhile Hyderabad State. During the Quit India Movement, he even gave up his legal practice in commitment to the cause of national independence.

Association with Educational and Social Institutions

Apart from politics, Shri S.B. Chavan was closely associated with various social and educational organizations. He served as Chancellor of Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, a deemed university in Pune. He also held the position of Chairman of the Indian Institute of Public Administration, contributing to academic and administrative excellence.

Political Career and Legislative Contributions

Shri Chavan’s long political journey began in 1956 when he became a Member of the Bombay State Legislative Council. In 1957, he was elected to the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and remained a member until 1980. Later, he served again in the Maharashtra Legislative Council from 1986 to 1988.

He held the office of Chief Minister of Maharashtra twice — from 1975 to 1977 and again from March 1986 to June 1988 — guiding the state through crucial phases of development.

At the national level, he was elected to the Seventh and Eighth Lok Sabha and represented Maharashtra in the Rajya Sabha for three terms between 1988 and 2002. He served as Leader of the House in the Rajya Sabha from July 1991 to May 1996. He also chaired the Committee on Human Resource Development (1996–2002) and the Ethics Committee (1997–2002), strengthening parliamentary processes.

Role in Union Government

Shri S.B. Chavan held several key portfolios as a Cabinet Minister in the Government of India, including Education, Culture and Social Welfare, External Affairs, Defence, Home Affairs, and Finance. His administrative acumen was widely acknowledged.

He also served as Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission of India from August 1981 to July 1984, where he provided significant impetus to national development planning.

Contribution to Irrigation and Development

A strong advocate of infrastructure development, Shri Chavan played an important role in major irrigation projects such as Jaikwadi Prakalp at Paithan, Vishnupuri Prakalp, and Upper Painganga Prakalp. These projects greatly benefited agriculture and regional development in Maharashtra.

Legacy and Commemorative Postage Stamp

Shri Shankarrao Bhaurao Chavan passed away on 26 February 2004 at the age of 84. His life remains a testament to integrity, public service, and visionary leadership.

To honour his invaluable contributions to the nation, the Department of Posts has released a commemorative postage stamp on Shankarrao Chavan, celebrating his enduring legacy in Indian public life.