Political Career
Five decades of dedicated service to the nation
Career Timeline
Joined RSS
At just 16 years old, young Radhakrishnan joined the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), beginning his lifelong journey of nationalist service and ideological commitment.
State Executive, Bharatiya Jana Sangh
Became a member of the State Executive Committee of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh in Tamil Nadu, demonstrating early leadership capabilities at a young age.
Joined Bharatiya Janata Party
Following the founding of the BJP in 1980, Radhakrishnan became one of its early members in Tamil Nadu, working closely with leaders like Atal Bihari Vajpayee to build the party's presence in southern India.
Garment Export Business
Launched a successful garment export business, specializing in cotton fabric exports to Bangladesh. Over 13 years (1985โ1998), he generated approximately $2โ3 million annually, gaining deep understanding of trade, industry, and the textile economy.
BJP Secretary, Tamil Nadu
Appointed as the Secretary of BJP's Tamil Nadu unit, strengthening the party's organizational structure and expanding its grassroots reach in the state.
Elected to Lok Sabha โ Coimbatore
Won the 1998 General Elections from the Coimbatore constituency with a commanding margin of 144,676 votes, defeating the DMK candidate. His victory came in the aftermath of the 1998 Coimbatore bombings, reflecting the deep trust placed in him by the people.
Re-elected to Lok Sabha
Re-elected from Coimbatore in the 1999 General Elections as part of the NDA alliance, serving his second consecutive term in Parliament. He served on the Parliamentary Committee for Public Sector Undertakings and the Consultative Committee for Finance.
BJP State President, Tamil Nadu
Elevated to the position of BJP State President of Tamil Nadu (2003โ2006), leading the party through a critical period of growth and alliance-building in the state. Also became a member of the BJP National Executive.
Chairman, Coir Board of India
Appointed Chairman of the Coir Board of India (2016โ2020), where he oversaw record coir exports exceeding โน2,700 crore (~$325 million) and championed initiatives for farmers and rural artisans in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Governor of Jharkhand
Appointed as the Governor of Jharkhand on 12 February 2023. In his tenure, he visited all 24 districts within the first four months, directly engaging with citizens and district officials, focusing on higher education and tribal welfare.
Governor of Telangana & LG of Puducherry
In March 2024, took additional charge as the Governor of Telangana and Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, demonstrating the trust placed in his administrative capabilities by the central government.
Governor of Maharashtra
Appointed as the 21st Governor of Maharashtra in July 2024. Led major initiatives including โน1,60,238 crore industrial investment in Gadchiroli, the Maha Vaachan Utsav involving 95 lakh students, and oversight of the Navi Mumbai International Airport development.
15th Vice President of India
Elected as the 15th Vice President of India on 9 September 2025, securing 452 votes against B. Sudarshan Reddy's 300. Sworn in on 12 September 2025, he now serves as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, the Upper House of the Indian Parliament.
Electoral Record
1998 โ Coimbatore
Won with margin of 144,676 votes
1999 โ Coimbatore
Re-elected (NDA alliance)
2004 โ Coimbatore
Unsuccessful
2014 โ Coimbatore
Unsuccessful
2019 โ Coimbatore
Unsuccessful
2025 โ Vice Presidential Election
Won: 452 vs 300 votes
Party Positions
Secretary, BJP Tamil Nadu (1996)
State President, BJP Tamil Nadu (2003โ2006)
Member, BJP National Executive
Close aide to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee