Lucknow: In the landscape of Uttar Pradesh politics, where power equations often overshadow quiet grassroots work, Sitapur MLC and Chairman of the S.R. Group of Institutions, Pawan Singh Chauhan, is carving out a distinct identity. An academician at heart, Chauhan has successfully merged the world of education with the call of public service, blending intellectual rigor with social commitment.
Early Influences
Chauhan traces his inclination for service back to his childhood. Raised in a family where culture, spirituality, and discipline were emphasized, he was taught values of etiquette, community bonding, and respect for traditions. By the age of 14, he had turned vegetarian, influenced by Bhagwat sermons on morality and restraint. Yet, he continued to cook for his family, underscoring his belief in service before self. These formative years, he says, sowed the seeds of his future life in public service.
Political Pathway
When Chauhan took oath as MLC in 2022, he carried his academic ethos into politics. His conviction: sincerity and good behavior never go unnoticed. “Politics is often given a bad name,” he reflects, “but its foundation lies in hard work and selfless service.” For him, a political organization is akin to a living body where every worker is an organ that keeps it functioning.
At the same time, he cautions against those who misuse the system with false claims, highlighting the need for vigilance. His approach has earned him credibility among peers and constituents, as he quietly delivers results at the grassroots.
River and Pond Rejuvenation
Among his most impactful initiatives is water conservation. In Sitapur, Chauhan led the revival of 17 ponds ranging between 5 and 25 acres. What stands out is that the projects were carried out entirely by the administration and local communities, without government expenditure. Inspired by this success, 22 more ponds were subsequently restored.
His efforts also extended to reviving the Kathana River. Once reduced to a shallow stream where motorcycles crossed with ease, it now boasts a water depth of 4.5 to 5 feet, with permanent boat operations. Similar rejuvenation projects are underway for the Mandakini and Sarayan rivers, supported by extensive plantation drives of *Harishankari* species such as peepal, pakad, and banyan. These not only enrich groundwater but also enhance oxygen flow, contributing to ecological balance.
Employment and Education
Chauhan’s commitment to youth welfare is equally notable. Each year, he helps around 9,000 young people secure employment, a figure that reflects his long-standing association with education through the S.R. Group. His focus extends to monitoring the quality of schooling and polytechnic training, staying in constant touch with district officials like the DM and DIOS.
Another area close to his heart is deaddiction. He sees substance abuse as a major social challenge and actively campaigns for awareness and rehabilitation.
Administrative Reforms
As Chairman of the Financial and Administrative Delay Committee, Chauhan’s influence extends across 38 districts. Under his leadership, long-pending bottlenecks such as gratuity dispersals and social welfare scholarships have been streamlined. He points out that nearly 70% of scholarship beneficiaries were previously unable to access their due benefits—a situation now witnessing a turnaround.
International and Sporting Roles
Chauhan’s role is not limited to state politics. As part of the UP Government delegation to Russia, he engaged in discussions on terrorism and defended India’s stance on strengthening Indo-Russian relations. He is hopeful that a group visa framework will soon become reality, further deepening ties.
Beyond governance, Chauhan also serves as President of the Taekwondo Federation of India. He believes rural youth, with their natural stamina and adaptability, are fast emerging as serious contenders in sports like cricket, volleyball, and football. He sees their rise as proof that grassroots India is brimming with untapped talent.
Feather in his cap
Within the BJP, Chauhan is being entrusted with greater responsibilities. He has been appointed as one of four Saksham Adhikaris to preside over upcoming elections of Block Development Committees, Pradhans, and Zila Panchayat members. His supporters view this as recognition of his steady, results-driven style of leadership.
At a personal level, Chauhan continues to advocate for the preservation of Indian knowledge traditions. He promotes chanting of the Gayatri mantra, millet-based diets over refined flour, and cultural activities like kabaddi, antakshari, poetry, and folk games. With the S.R. Group preparing to launch a university, he envisions introducing cross-cultural curricula that bridge tradition and modernity.
