January 2026

Akhilesh Yadav is a prominent Indian politician and the National President of the Samajwadi Party (SP). He served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh from 2012 to 2017, becoming one of the youngest leaders to hold the state’s top executive office. Known for his focus on development, infrastructure, and social justice politics, Akhilesh Yadav remains a key figure in Uttar Pradesh and national politics. Born on 1 July 1973, Akhilesh Yadav is the son of veteran socialist leader Mulayam Singh Yadav, the founder of the Samajwadi Party and former Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. Educated in India and abroad, Akhilesh holds a degree in Environmental Engineering, a background that influenced his emphasis on modern infrastructure and urban development during his tenure as CM. Political Career Akhilesh Yadav began his political career as a Member of Parliament from Kannauj in 2000. Over the years, he emerged as the face of generational change within the Samajwadi Party, appealing especially to youth, students, and urban voters. In 2012, he led the SP to a decisive victory in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections and was sworn in as Chief Minister. Tenure as Chief Minister During his tenure, Akhilesh Yadav launched several high-profile projects aimed at modernization, including: Lucknow Metro Agra–Lucknow Expressway Expansion of ambulance services (108 & 102) Laptop distribution schemes for students Urban road and infrastructure upgrades His government emphasized connectivity, public transport, education support, and healthcare services. However, his tenure also faced criticism over law-and-order issues and political infighting within the party. Role as Opposition Leader After 2017, Akhilesh Yadav took on a stronger role as the principal opposition voice in Uttar Pradesh. As Samajwadi Party chief, he has frequently raised issues related to: Farmers’ welfare Unemployment Price rise Demolitions and urban redevelopment policies Social harmony and constitutional values He has been vocal in criticising the BJP-led government in Uttar Pradesh, including on development projects in cities like Varanasi, arguing for greater public consultation and rehabilitation measures. Current Political Standing Akhilesh Yadav continues to play a crucial role in shaping opposition politics in Uttar Pradesh. Under his leadership, the Samajwadi Party has focused on alliance-based politics and strengthening its base among youth, backward classes, minorities, and farmers. Summary Akhilesh Yadav is widely seen as a modern yet socialist leader, blending development-centric politics with social justice narratives. As Uttar Pradesh remains central to India’s political future, his role as an opposition leader keeps him at the forefront of major political debates.

Chief Minister’s Focus on Varanasi: Development, Culture & Law & Order Varanasi (UP) — Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath continues to maintain a high profile in Varanasi, the holy city he represents as a key political constituency. In recent weeks, the CM has been actively engaged in multiple developmental, cultural, and administrative initiatives, reflecting his government’s efforts to balance modern infrastructure growth with the city’s spiritual heritage. Development & Urban Improvements During a detailed review meeting in Varanasi, the Chief Minister highlighted the need to promote the global image of Kashi and accelerate land acquisition for critical infrastructure projects. He stressed the urgency of decongesting traffic around major pilgrimage areas such as Kashi Vishwanath Dham and Dalmandi, while directing local authorities to improve sewerage, water supply, and urban amenities ahead of the upcoming Magh Mela and winter season. Officials were also instructed to address illegal transport stands and provide well-managed parking zones for residents and visitors alike.The Times of India Record Growth in Tourism Under the CM’s leadership, Varanasi has witnessed a significant surge in religious and cultural tourism. Recent government data shows a record influx of millions of domestic and international visitors, with a notable majority of young pilgrims contributing to the city’s rejuvenated spiritual appeal. These figures underscore the outcome of sustained efforts to enhance heritage sites and ghats, and focus on tourism-driven economic development.Indiatimes Law & Order and Public Safety Addressing security and public order during his city visits, the Chief Minister has repeatedly emphasized that ghats and holy precincts must remain peaceful and free from disruption. In public remarks at a gathering in Varanasi, CM Yogi stated that organized crime and disruptive elements should not operate outside jail, reaffirming a strong stance on law enforcement and safety for both residents and pilgrims.Navbharat Times Cultural Engagement & Devotional Presence Beyond administrative duties, the Chief Minister has also participated in major cultural and religious events in Varanasi, including attending celebrations like Dev Deepawali alongside national leaders. His presence at such festivals reinforces the city’s ancient identity as a center of devotion and heritage that attracts people worldwide.