Senior BJP leader Narayan Rane gave important indications about the future
Mumbai: In a carefully considered announcement that has sent shockwaves through Maharashtra’s political circles, former Union Minister for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Narayan Rane on Sunday hinted at his retirement from active politics.
The 73-year-old veteran leader, known for his sharp statements and party-hopping, stressed the need for personal boundaries in a demanding profession, citing the impact on health and family responsibilities.
Rane said in Sindhudurg – his home turf – “One has to stop somewhere; it’s not as if one should just keep working. After all, it’s the body – one feels the need to stop somewhere. Now that both sons are working, someone should also look after the family business.”
His words were a kind of closure after decades in the public eye.
Rane’s political journey spans over five decades, beginning as a grassroots worker with the Shiv Sena under Bal Thackeray’s leadership in the 1970s. Rising through the ranks, he briefly served as Chief Minister of Maharashtra in 1999 during the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance, becoming the first person from the Konkan region to hold the post.
His tenure saw several major decisions, including promoting infrastructure in rural areas, but also led to some controversies that led to his expulsion from the Shiv Sena in 2005.
Undeterred, Rane formed his own party, the Maharashtra Swabhiman Paksha, and then merged it with the Congress, where he held ministerial positions in the Revenue, Industry, and Health ministries.
Frustrated with internal dynamics, he joined the BJP in 2019, aligned with PM Narendra Modi’s vision.
As a former Union Minister until 2024, Narayan Rane has pushed for MSME reforms, which have helped small businesses recover after the COVID-19 pandemic – a sector close to his heart.
The timing of his retirement announcement coincides with his sons’ political identity.
Elder son Nilesh Rane, a former Lok Sabha MP and MLA from the Kudal Assembly constituency in Maharashtra, and younger son Nitesh Rane, Maharashtra’s Ports Development Minister, have taken over the role.
Rane said, “With them taking over the mantle, it is now time for me to oversee our family affairs.”
Political analysts are viewing this as a strategic exit amid internal reshuffle within the BJP ahead of the 2029 elections.
Party colleagues expressed surprise but respect.
For Rane, a self-made leader from humble beginnings in Malvan, this represents a potential shift towards quieter pursuits.
Still, in India’s volatile political climate, retirements are often temporary.
As he retires, Rane leaves behind a legacy of strength, ambition, and unwavering loyalty to his roots.
Whether this is a farewell or a middle ground remains to be seen.
