(Wednesday, October 15, 2025) Ravi Sitaram Naik was one of Goa’s most experienced and respected leaders. He was born on 18 September 1946 in Ponda, Goa. On October 15, 2025, His journey from a small-town boy to a two-time Chief Minister of Goa tells a story of struggle, ambition, and service.
Early Life And Family
Ravi Naik was born into a simple family in Ponda. His father, Sitaram Naik, was respected in the community. From his early years, Ravi Naik showed deep interest in farming and social work. He loved gardening, reading, and music. He enjoyed a peaceful rural life, which shaped his simple and grounded personality.
As a young man, Ravi Naik was an active sportsman. He was known as the only legislator in Goa who also played volleyball at the national level. This passion for sports made him strong in character and teamwork Before entering politics, he even ran a small bar and restaurant in Ponda, which helped him understand local life closely.
Ravi Naik Age, Wikipedia, Biography, Wife, Son, Brother, Family
Early Career
Ravi Naik began his political journey in the late 1970s. He first joined the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP), one of Goa’s earliest political movements. His first election was in 1980, though he did not win [3]. However, he did not give up. His dedication and calm nature soon won the trust of people.
In the 1984 Goa Assembly elections, he was elected for the first time. This marked the real beginning of a political career that would last more than four decades.
Rise in State Politics
Ravi Naik’s leadership skills quickly became visible. He was known for his firmness, but also his soft-spoken nature. In 1991, he became the Chief Minister of Goa for the first time [5]. His tenure focused on rural development, agricultural support, and better services for farmers and small traders.
In 1994, Naik became Chief Minister again, though this time only for about two months due to political instability [1][3]. Even during short periods in office, he focused on the needs of the poor and worked on improving village-level facilities.
Political Journey
Naik was a true survivor in the changing world of Goan politics. He worked with different political parties such as the MGP, Congress, and finally the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His move from one party to another reflected his adaptability and focus on Goa’s development rather than party politics. Throughout his journey, he served in many important roles — as Home Minister, Agriculture Minister, Deputy Chief Minister, and Leader of the Opposition.
He was elected as a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) seven times, mostly from the Ponda constituency [1]. Every time he won, it showed the people’s faith in his quiet but strong style of leadership.
Role in National Politics
Ravi Naik’s influence was not limited to Goa. In 1998, he was elected to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of India’s Parliament. His time in national politics showed his ability to represent Goans on a bigger stage.
Even though his national term was short, he continued to remain active in local politics. In 1999, he became Leader of the Opposition in Goa, strongly presenting the voice of the people against policies he thought were not in their interest.
Working for the People
Naik’s image was that of a people’s leader. He constantly worked for the rights of the Bhandari community, farmers, and mundkars (tenant farmers). His focus was always on inclusive development. He also worked for better opportunities for youth and supported cultural and sporting activities across Goa.
Many remembered him for his open-door policy, where citizens could reach him directly for help. Over the years, this earned him respect across political and social groups.
Personal Life
Besides politics, Naik lived a life full of simple joys. He was close to his family, especially his sons. His son Roy Naik followed in his father’s footsteps and entered Goan politics. Ravi Naik’s hobbies included gardening, music, reading, and playing sports.
He was seen as a calm person who believed in hard work and honesty. Friends and colleagues often described him as a humble man who valued relationships over positions.