IITian Parrikar set for third stint as CM

The first IITian to become the chief minister of a state in 2000, Manohar Parrikar’s entry into politics was a masterstroke in talent spotting by the late Pramod Mahajan.

The first IITian to become the chief minister of a state in 2000, Manohar Parrikar’s entry into politics was a masterstroke in talent spotting by the late Pramod Mahajan.

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The IIT Bombay graduate in metallurgical engineering caught Mahajan’s eye while working on a project for the BJP.

After initial reluctance, Parrikar took the plunge and is credited with raising the BJP’s profile and bringing it to power in Goa for the first time 12 years ago. In a state known for fragile governments, he had to demit the CM post in early 2002. Parrikar returned to power a few months later, but had to quit in 2005 after a few MLAs withdrew support to him.

Parrikar, 56, now set for a third stint as CM, is known for his clean image, administrative skills and grassroots leadership.

During his stints as CM, he had brought the International Film Festival of India to Goa. In 2001, IIT Bombay honoured its 1978 passout with the Distinguished Alumnus Award.

In the run-up to 2012 polls, he was the face of BJP.