Kolhapur Mayor Advocates for Practical Gifts to Support Education
In a refreshing departure from tradition, Rouparani Nikam, the newly elected mayor of Kolhapur Municipal Corporation (KMC), has issued a heartfelt appeal to the public. Instead of spending hundreds of rupees on flower garlands and bouquets to congratulate her, she requests that people bring a simple pen worth Re 1. This innovative gesture aims to turn well-wishes into tangible support for students from municipal schools.
Turning Congratulations into Educational Aid
Following the KMC mayoral elections, which occurred after a gap of over six years, there was a significant rush of people eager to felicitate the newly elected mayor, deputy mayor, and group leaders from all political parties. Many resorted to purchasing expensive floral arrangements, incurring substantial costs. Addressing a crowd gathered at her residence on Saturday, Mayor Nikam expressed her gratitude but emphasized practicality.
"I thank everyone who came here to congratulate me for becoming the first BJP and Mahayuti mayor of Kolhapur," she stated. "No one should spend money on garlands and bouquets and face financial loss. Instead of bouquets and garlands, just bring a Re 1 pen. The pens collected from your good wishes will be given to the children studying in municipal corporation schools."
Launching the 'Mayor At Your Doorstep' Initiative
In addition to her pen donation drive, Mayor Nikam has resolved to implement the 'Mayor At Your Doorstep' initiative to enhance public engagement. She announced that a Janata Darbar, or public forum, will be held at the Municipal Corporation Chowk on the fifth day of every month. This move is designed to make civic governance more accessible and responsive to the needs of Kolhapur's residents.
Background of a Scholarly Leader
Rouparani Nikam, who holds a diploma in Pharmacy, is serving her second term in the KMC House. She has built a reputation as a scholarly and effective representative. During her previous tenure from 2015 to 2020, she was known for presenting well-researched presentations on various civic issues and resolving numerous public concerns, including:
- Public toilet maintenance and accessibility
- Garbage management and sanitation
- Water scarcity and distribution
- Support for women's self-help groups
Notably, she formed more than 23 women's self-help groups in her ward and was a regular participant in discussions on the city development plan, contributing to strategic urban growth.
Entrepreneurial and Political Journey
Beyond her civic duties, Nikam is an accomplished entrepreneur with interests in multiple sectors. She runs an educational institution, a computer academy, a cable network, and an earth-moving business. Her political career includes many years of work with the BJP, where she served as the district president of the Mahila Morcha and is currently the district vice-president. Elected from the Rajendranagar ward in 2015-2020, she secured victory again in 2026 from ward number 18 under the general category, underscoring her enduring connection with the community.
This blend of educational advocacy, public service innovation, and grassroots engagement positions Mayor Rouparani Nikam as a forward-thinking leader dedicated to transforming Kolhapur's civic landscape through practical and inclusive measures.
