Vijay Rupani biography: Vijay Rupani was a notable Indian politician best known for his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat from 2016 to 2021. His rise in Indian politics showcases a journey marked by discipline, loyalty, and public service. With humble beginnings in a city of Gujarat, Rajkot, Rupani’s leadership style has been one of quiet effectiveness rather than flamboyant speeches — making him a distinctive figure in Gujarat’s political history.
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🧒 Early Life and Education
Vijay Ramniklal Rupani was born on August 2, 1956, in Yangon (Rangoon), Burma (now Myanmar). His family moved to Rajkot, Gujarat, after political instability in Myanmar. He completed his Bachelor of Arts and LLB (Bachelor of Law) from Saurashtra University, Rajkot.
He was drawn toward social service and political activity from a young age, becoming a member of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) during his student days.
🧍 Personal Life
Vijay Rupani is married to Anjali Rupani, and the couple has three children. He is a strong follower of Jainism, and his personal lifestyle is known to be simple and disciplined. He is also involved in charitable trusts and educational initiatives in Rajkot.
Tragic Demise
On 12 June 2025, Rupani was among the victims of the Air India Flight AI-171 crash near Ahmedabad airport. The plane, heading to London, carried 242 on board, only one person survived. His death, mourned by leaders across parties, marked another tragic instance of a former Gujarat CM losing life in an air disaster.
🏛️ Political Career: From Local to State Leadership
Rupani’s political career began with the Jan Sangh, and later he became a founding member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Gujarat.
Vijay Rupani served in many significant roles:
- Rajkot Municipal Corporation: Rupani was elected as a corporator in 1987. He later became the Mayor of Rajkot in 1996.
- Gujarat Legislative Assembly: He was elected as an MLA from Rajkot West multiple times.
- Rajya Sabha MP: Rupani served as a Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from 2006 to 2012, representing Gujarat.
- President of the Bharatiya Janata Party, Gujarat in year 2016.
He was considered a trusted aide within the BJP due to his consistent work and organizational skills.
🏆 Chief Minister of Gujarat (2016–2021)
On August 7, 2016, Vijay Rupani was sworn in as the 16th Chief Minister of Gujarat, succeeding Anandiben Patel.
During his tenure:
- He focused on infrastructure development, especially road connectivity and urban housing.
- He promoted the “Sauni Yojana” for water irrigation to support farmers in Saurashtra.
- His government launched the Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020 to boost small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
- He emphasized e-governance, simplifying administrative processes through digital tools.
He was re-elected in 2017 and continued as Chief Minister of Gujarat until September 11, 2021, when he resigned to allow a leadership transition within the party.
💼 Other Roles and Contributions
Besides serving as Chief Minister, Vijay Rupani also held portfolios like Transport, Ports, Labor & Employment, and Water Supply as a Cabinet Minister in Gujarat before becoming CM.
He is recognized for his clean image and calm approach to leadership. His strength has been organizational discipline, a trait valued highly in Indian politics.
💰 Net Worth
As per his 2017 election affidavit, Vijay Rupani declared assets worth approximately ₹9 crore INR including both movable and immovable property. This includes property held jointly with his wife, Anjali Rupani, who is also active in social causes.
Note: Net worth figures may vary and should be referenced from official public records during each election cycle.
Legacy and Impact
While Vijay Rupani may not have a flashy national presence, his administrative work, organizational strength, and ability to maintain party discipline played a significant role in BJP’s stronghold in Gujarat.
His journey from being a local corporator to the Chief Minister of one of India’s most developed states is a story of consistency, patience, and service.
Conclusion
Vijay Rupani’s biography teaches an important lesson. Not every leader makes headlines, but many build quietly and steadily behind the scenes.
His political career is an example of steady growth, loyalty to ideology, and a commitment to public welfare values that are central to true leadership.