‘Maharishi of Irrigation’ BT Deshmukh no more Prof Bhaurao Tulsiram Deshmukh, known affectionately as BT Deshmukh, a five-term member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council representing the Amravati Division Graduates’ Constituency and a prominent intellectual from Vidarbha, passed away on Friday night at the age of 88. Family sources revealed that Deshmukh had been unwell and had recently returned home after receiving treatment at a private hospital. His death occurred around 8 p.m. at his residence in Amravati following a heart attack. His final rites were scheduled for Saturday. Deshmukh was a distinguished political science scholar, journalist, educationist, and leader of teachers’ unions. He served the graduates’ constituency for five consecutive terms, earning a reputation as a meticulous and well-researched legislator. Widely recognized as the “Maharishi of Irrigation Backlog Eradication,” he consistently highlighted issues such as irrigation imbalance, water scarcity, and regional neglect in western Vidarbha. His work focused on addressing systemic challenges that had long plagued the region, particularly its chronic water shortages and underdeveloped infrastructure. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Deshmukh’s death as “a great loss not only to Amravati but to the socio-political sector of the entire Maharashtra.” Union Minister Nitin Gadkari praised him as “a lifelong crusader for the eradication of Vidarbha’s backwardness,” noting that his research-driven speeches had guided generations of legislators. Deshmukh’s efforts were instrumental in advancing critical infrastructure and irrigation projects in Vidarbha. His advocacy played a pivotal role in accelerating the Upper Wardha Dam project, which significantly alleviated Amravati city’s long-standing water crisis.#nitin_gadkari #devendra_fadnavis #amravati #vidarbha #bt_deshmukh
