Over a 50-year career that evolved from grassroots politics to holding the highest constitutional posts. (Image: X/Federal)
Backed by the ruling NDA alliance, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stalwart Chandrapuram Ponnusamy Radhakrishnan has been elected as India's 15th Vice President. Beyond the political triumph, his journey is a compelling narrative of a modest educational beginning leading to a position of immense power, backed by substantial financial capital. With a declared net worth of ₹64.75 crore and a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree, his ascent to the vice presidency is a unique story in Indian politics.
The new Vice President of India began his journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He pursued and completed this qualification from V. O. Chidambaram College (VoC College) in Thoothukudi (formerly Tuticorin), Tamil Nadu. Not just a good student, he also shone in sports, winning titles in table tennis during college. His choice of a business-centric education, rather than the more common law or arts degree, equipped him with a different perspective—one rooted in planning, organization, and leadership.
According to publicly disclosed affidavits, C.P. Radhakrishnan's financial profile is one of significant wealth, a key aspect of his public identity.
Radhakrishnan, hailing from the Kongu Vellalar Gounder community in Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, is a clear example of how political careers can grow gradually, with reputation and influence strengthening side by side. His involvement with the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Tamil Nadu marked the beginning of his political career at the tender age of 17.
He rose through the ranks of the BJP, serving as Tamil Nadu state secretary and later state president. His public presence and political capital were developed during this critical time.
His election as a two-term Member of Parliament from Coimbatore (1998, 1999) was a major professional and financial stepping stone. Serving on high-profile committees like Commerce, Finance, and MPLADS provided him with deep insight into the nation's economic machinery.
Also Read: CP Radhakrishnan Wins Vice Presidential Polls With 452 Votes
His appointment to powerful administrative roles marked a significant phase:
Coir Board Chairman (2016–2020): A central government position in charge of a significant sector.
Governor Roles (2023-2024): Serving as the Governor of Jharkhand and later Maharashtra (with additional charge of Telangana and Puducherry) are among the highest-ranking constitutional positions in India, accompanied by substantial benefits and influence.
