NEW DELHI: In a rare moment of bipartisan praise, veteran politician Sharad Pawar on Tuesday lauded deputy CM Eknath Shinde for his adeptness in bridging political divides with a focus on the state’s development, as well as his ability to steer governance with an inclusive approach.
“Thane, Navi Mumbai, and Mumbai require strong and consistent leadership to navigate their political landscape effectively. Leaders like former municipal presidents Savlaram Patil and Rangnekar played key roles, and Eknath Shinde has significantly contributed as well,” said Pawar, while sharing an anecdote about poet Savlaram Patil, who hailed from Satara but went on to become Thane mayor.
Pawar’s complements came as Shinde was honoured with the prestigious Mahadji Shinde Rashtriya Gaurav Award for his “decisive leadership” and “commitment to the state’s progress”. The award was conferred upon him by Sarhad, an organisation dedicated to preserving historical and cultural legacies at the 98th All India Marathi Literary Conference in Delhi.