Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Appointed as Chairman of Maharashtra ST Corporation

Pratap Sarnaik, the current Transport Minister of Maharashtra, has been officially appointed as the new Chairman of the Maharashtra State Road Transport (ST) Corporation. The appointment comes in accordance with the provisions set forth by the Maharashtra Government under the Central Act governing the functioning of the Corporation.

Sarnaik now becomes the 26th chairman of the ST Corporation, a vital public transportation body serving the people of Maharashtra.

Leadership Changes in ST Corporation

Initially, Additional Chief Secretary Sanjay Sethi was appointed to the post by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. However, the decision was later reversed, and the responsibility was subsequently handed over to Minister Pratap Sarnaik.

The ST Corporation has seen several prominent leaders in the chairman’s seat. The first chairman of the corporation was R.G. Saraiya. Between 2014 and 2019, Diwakar Raote served as both the Transport Minister and Chairman. He was succeeded by Anil Parab, followed by Eknath Shinde, who held the dual role when he was Chief Minister. Now, the mantle passes to Pratap Sarnaik.

Sarnaik’s Vision for ST

Upon his appointment, Pratap Sarnaik expressed his commitment to improving the state’s public transportation infrastructure.

“I am committed to creating a high-quality transport service by financially strengthening the ST Corporation, which serves as the lifeline for the common people of Maharashtra,” Sarnaik stated.

He also extended his gratitude to the state leadership, saying:

“I thank Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar for entrusting me with this responsibility and giving me the opportunity to serve the people of Maharashtra.”

Sarnaik’s appointment is expected to bring renewed focus on reform and modernization within the ST Corporation, which has faced several operational and financial challenges in recent years.