Sharad Pawar re-elected president of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha

Kolhapur: NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday unanimously re-elected as the president of the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha for a three-year term till 2029.Pawar, who had been unwell and away from public engagements after taking oath as a Rajya Sabha member last month, attended a programme at the Sanstha organised on the death anniversary of its founder Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil. He received a grand welcome from supporters and party workers, who greeted him with rose petals, garlands and bouquets. A large number of workers from both NCP (SP) and even NCP gathered at the govt rest house to meet him.Pawar was accompanied by his daughter and Baramati MP Supriya Sule, MLA Dilip Walse Patil, MLA Rohit Pawar and other leaders. Absence of late Ajit Pawar, who had been a regular at the annual programme, was widely missed at the event.Addressing the gathering, Pawar emphasised the need for introspection and innovation. "We must reflect on where we have fallen short and identify new directions for growth. We are striving to carry forward the ideals set by Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil," he said, expressing gratitude to the staff of the institution for their dedication.Highlighting future plans, Pawar stressed the importance of adapting to global changes. He said the institution must embrace new concepts, including artificial intelligence (AI), to remain relevant. "The world has moved forward and we must keep pace. By integrating AI and modern approaches, Rayat Sanstha can stay aligned with global developments," he said, while also announcing plans to provide scholarships to a large number of students this year, supported by generous donations from well-wishers.Recalling the legacy of Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil, Pawar said, "He worked tirelessly with a vision to open the doors of education to the poor. Today, it is encouraging to see students from rural areas engaging in discussions on AI." He also acknowledged philanthropist Ramsheth Thakur for his continued support, including a contribution exceeding Rs 3 crore this year.During the event, several publications were released, including Advocate B N Nalawade's autobiography ‘Karmaveeranche Sangati', the Rayat Science Magazine, Rayat Monthly and the institution's Educational Quality Development Plan.The programme also featured awards and recognitions for contributions to the institution. Outstanding branches were honoured with the ‘Karmaveer Paritoshik', while exemplary teachers received the ‘Yashwantrao Chavan Ideal Teacher Award'. Additionally, student athletes who have excelled at the international level were felicitated.