Daijiworld Media Network - Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad, Oct 21: Veteran Congress leader and former Union Minister Yogendra Makwana passed away on Tuesday, marking the end of a distinguished public life that spanned over five decades. A stalwart of inclusive governance and social justice, Makwana’s contributions to Indian politics, particularly in championing the rights of marginalised communities, have left a lasting legacy.
Born on October 23, 1933, in Sojitra village in Gujarat's Anand district, Makwana rose from grassroots politics to hold several key Union Cabinet portfolios under former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi between 1980 and 1988. His ministerial responsibilities included Home Affairs, Planning, Communications, Steel and Mines, Health, and Agriculture — portfolios he handled with a reputation for pragmatism and dedication.
Makwana came from a family committed to public service. His wife, Shantaben Makwana, was elected to the first Gujarat Assembly in 1962 and served as Minister for Health and Water Resources. His daughter, Anuradha Mall, served as an IAS officer and retired as Gujarat’s Additional Chief Secretary, while his son, Bharat Makwana, served as an MLA from Sojitra and contested the 2024 Lok Sabha polls from Ahmedabad (West).
Educated with degrees in B.A., LLB, and PhD, Makwana began his political journey with the Praja Samajwadi Party as General Secretary of the Kheda District unit before being invited by Indira Gandhi to join the Indian National Congress — a move that launched him into national politics. He quickly gained recognition for his administrative skill and commitment to the welfare of Scheduled Castes and other disadvantaged groups.
Throughout his career, Makwana was known for his efforts to ensure development policies were inclusive and reached the most marginalised. He was instrumental in promoting the Social Component Plan and other welfare measures aimed at empowering Dalit and backward communities. In 2006, he was appointed Chairman of the Scheduled Caste Department of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), where he continued his advocacy for social justice.
One of the notable moments in his career was his behind-the-scenes role in resolving the Assam agitation. Makwana played a crucial part in negotiations with the All Assam Students Union and Assam Gana Parishad, contributing to the peace process that eventually led to Prafulla Mahanta becoming Chief Minister of Assam.
Respected across party lines for his humility, administrative competence, and deep connection with the people, Yogendra Makwana leaves behind a powerful legacy of public service, social commitment, and political integrity.