Parkash Singh Badal

Parkash Singh Badal became Chief Minister of Punjab for the first time at age 43, leading a coalition government. His tenure was short-lived but marked the beginning of his long political career. He focused on agricultural development and Sikh interests.

Badal was a key figure in the Anandpur Sahib Resolution, which demanded greater autonomy for Punjab and Sikh rights. The resolution became a central document in Sikh politics. It was later cited by militants but Badal distanced himself from extremism.

Parkash Singh Badal became the president of the Shiromani Akali Dal, the main Sikh political party in Punjab. He led the party through the turbulent post-militancy period. His leadership focused on Sikh identity and regional autonomy.

Badal became Chief Minister in 1997 after the end of Sikh militancy. His government focused on rebuilding Punjab's economy and infrastructure. He implemented free power to farmers and other populist measures, but also faced criticism for fiscal mismanagement.

Badal won his fifth term as Chief Minister in 2012, leading the SAD-BJP alliance to victory. At 84, he was one of India's oldest chief ministers. His final term was marred by the 2015 drug scandal and farm distress, leading to defeat in 2017.