In a heartwarming testament to decades of dedicated public service, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah reached a historic milestone on January 7, 2026, becoming the state's longest-serving Chief Minister. The 78-year-old Congress leader has surpassed the record previously held by his role model, the legendary social justice icon D. Devaraj Urs.

Siddaramaiah's journey to this achievement spans multiple terms in office – a complete term from 2013 to 2018, and his current tenure beginning in May 2023. Together, these have exceeded Urs's impressive record of seven years and 239 days in office during the 1970s.

What makes this milestone particularly meaningful is the shared legacy between these two leaders. Both hailing from Mysuru and coming from backward class communities, they've dedicated their careers to uplifting the most vulnerable members of society. While Urs revolutionized Karnataka through groundbreaking land reforms, Siddaramaiah has championed the cause of the poor through innovative welfare initiatives.

The Chief Minister's "Bhagya" schemes during his first term and the five "guarantees" in his current tenure have earned him widespread recognition as a champion of the underprivileged. Multiple research studies have validated the positive impact of these programs, showing significant improvements in women's financial independence, better access to essential services, and enhanced overall household well-being. These initiatives are now considered Karnataka's fourth major social revolution, following land reforms, reservations, and decentralization.

Siddaramaiah's commitment to good governance extends beyond welfare programs. As Finance Minister, he holds another impressive record – presenting sixteen state budgets, more than any other leader in Karnataka's history. His most recent budget crossed the ₹4 lakh crore mark, demonstrating the state's growth and development trajectory.

Born into a shepherd community family, Siddaramaiah's rise from humble beginnings to becoming Karnataka's most enduring Chief Minister is truly inspiring. Starting as a lawyer, he first entered the Legislative Assembly in 1983 and has served eight terms. His political journey, spanning four decades, showcases resilience and dedication despite numerous challenges and party changes.

His leadership has been marked by bold initiatives for social justice. The Karnataka Scheduled Castes Sub-Plan and Tribal Sub-Plan Act of 2013, introduced during his first tenure, represents significant progress in ensuring equitable resource allocation. His administration also conducted Karnataka's first-ever caste survey, an important step toward understanding and addressing social inequalities.

The Chief Minister's success in connecting with people across social hierarchies has been evident in the enthusiastic celebrations organized by backward class organizations to mark this achievement. His AHINDA vision – supporting minorities, backward classes, and Dalits – continues to resonate with millions across Karnataka.

As Siddaramaiah continues his current term, his legacy of transformative welfare policies, fiscal responsibility, and unwavering commitment to social justice serves as an inspiration. This historic milestone isn't just about longevity in office; it's a celebration of sustained dedication to public service and the positive transformation of countless lives across Karnataka.