# Dadaji Bhuse

Dadaji Bhuse is a member of the 16th Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, representing the Malegaon Outer Assembly Constituency. He belongs to the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction). This marks his fifth consecutive term as a member of the Legislative Assembly. In the 2024 state elections held on November 20, 2024, He defeated Advay Hirey of Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray, retaining his seat with a significant margin .
In December 2014, he was appointed as the minister of state for co-operation, and over the years, he has held several significant positions. As of December 2024, He serves as the cabinet minister for agriculture in Maharashtra under the government led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. His portfolio includes initiatives aimed at modernizing the agricultural sector, supporting farmer welfare, and implementing water resource management projects .
He has also been instrumental in various state infrastructure projects, including enhancing connectivity through highways and addressing drought-related challenges through water storage improvements .

## Early life and education

Dadaji Bhuse was born on March 6, 1965, in Malegaon, Maharashtra, to a farming family. His father, Dagadu Bayaji Bhuse, was a freedom fighter, instilling a strong sense of service in him. He completed his early education locally and earned a diploma in engineering. His initially worked with the Irrigation Department but left to pursue social work and a political career, inspired by Dharmaveer Anand Dighe.

## Political career

Dadaji Bhuse’s political journey began in 2004 when he contested and won the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections as an independent candidate, defeating an incumbent minister. He has consistently represented the Malegaon Outer constituency since then, winning in 2004, 2009, 2014, 2019, and most recently in 2024. Currently, he serves as the cabinet minister for public works (including public undertakings)

## Personal life

He is married to Anita Bhuse, who is also involved in farming. His net worth is approximately ₹10.97 crore, with no reported liabilities.

## Key achievements and initiatives

* Agriculture sector reforms: As minister of agriculture, Bhuse spearheaded initiatives such as approving five agricultural colleges simultaneously, a first in Maharashtra’s history. He has also promoted modern farming practices and welfare schemes for farmers .
* Infrastructure development: Dadaji Bhuse played a crucial role in the Samruddhi Mahamarg project, overseeing the development of the highway section between Bharveer and Igatpuri. He emphasized its role in boosting connectivity and economic development .
* Water resource management: Dadaji Bhuse has overseen projects like doubling the capacity of Talwade Lake to mitigate drought and enhancing water storage in the region .
* Social contributions: He founded the Janata Raja Mitra Mandal, an organization aimed at addressing social issues and supporting youth development .

## Positions held

* 2004: Elected to Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (1st term)
* 2009: Re-elected to Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (2nd term)
* 2014: Re-elected to Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (3rd term)
* 2014 - 2016: Minister of state for co-operation in Maharashtra State Government
* 2014 - 2019: Guardian minister of Dhule District
* 2016 - 2019: Minister of state for rural development in Maharashtra State Government.
* 2019: Re-elected to Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (4th term)
* 2019: Appointed minister of agriculture, Ex Soldiers Welfare
* 2020: Appointed guardian minister of Palghar district
* 2022 : Pwd Rural Development Cabinet Minister
* 2024: Re-Elected to Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (5th term)
* 2024: Ministry of Agriculture (Maharashtra)