J. Chinchu Rani

J. Chinchu Rani was born on 6 July 1962 in Kollam, Kerala, to Mundakkal Bharanikkavu Thekkevilayil Veliyil N. Sreedharan and Jagadamma. Her father was an early communist activist and a cashew workers’ union member, which influenced her early interest in public service and social movements.

Rani entered politics through student and youth wings, including the All India Students Federation (AISF), and held grassroots positions such as Member of Eravipuram Gram Panchayat (1985–1990) and Vice-President, District Panchayat (1995–2000). She also served on standing committees of the Kollam Corporation, gaining experience in local governance.

She first contested a legislative election in 2021 from the Chadayamangalam Assembly constituency and won on her first attempt, marking her entry into state-level legislative politics. Her victory reflects sustained support in a constituency with a strong cooperative and agrarian base.

On 20 May 2021, Rani was inducted into the Kerala state cabinet as Minister for Animal Husbandry, Dairy Development, Milk Co-operatives, Zoos, and Kerala Veterinary & Animal Sciences University under Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, becoming one of the few women ministers representing the CPI in the state government.

As of 2026, she continues in this cabinet role, championing policies on livestock care, dairy cooperatives, and veterinary education.