Smriti Irani

She was born as Smriti Malhotra, the daughter of a half-Punjabi, half-Maharashtrian Hindu father, Ajay Kumar Malhotra, and a Bengali Hindu mother, Shibani née Bagchi.{{cite news |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/change-of-role-anyone/story-09RrquZGnSNd4OoNJHdf9L.html |title=Change of role, anyone? |work=Hindustan Times |date=6 April 2013 |access-date=31 August 2014 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305230313/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/change-of-role-anyone/story-09RrquZGnSNd4OoNJHdf9L.html |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://www.elections.in/political-leaders/smriti-irani.html |title=Smriti Irani Biography - About family, political life, awards won, history |website=elections.in |access-date=25 March 2018 |archive-date=16 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181016142950/http://www.elections.in/political-leaders/smriti-irani.html |url-status=live }} She is the eldest among three sisters.{{Cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/politics/all-the-pms-men-and-women-23-cabinet-ministers/ |title=All the PM's Men and Women: 23 Cabinet ministers |date=27 May 2014 |website=The Indian Express |access-date=25 April 2016}}{{cite news |url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-11-01/news/43592820_1_smriti-irani-narendra-modi-modi-led-bjp |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102132722/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-11-01/news/43592820_1_smriti-irani-narendra-modi-modi-led-bjp |url-status=dead |archive-date=2 November 2013 |title=Rise of Smriti Irani: Journey from bahu of TV to BJP's Vice President |work=The Economic Times |date=1 November 2013}} Her mother was a member of Jana Sangh and her grandfather was associated with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh.{{cite news|date=18 April 2014|title=RSS is like a home to me, says Smriti Irani|newspaper=Jagran Post|url=http://post.jagran.com/rss-is-like-a-home-to-me-says-smriti-irani-1397818300|url-status=dead|access-date=6 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327090303/http://post.jagran.com/rss-is-like-a-home-to-me-says-smriti-irani-1397818300|archive-date=27 March 2019}}

Smriti was educated at the Holy Child Auxilium School, New Delhi, which is run by Catholic nuns.{{cite news |title=Convent School in South Delhi Robbed; Alumnus Smriti Irani Visits |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/convent-school-in-south-delhi-vandalised-alumnus-smriti-irani-to-visit-739239 |work=NDTV.com |access-date=17 May 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807100512/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/convent-school-in-south-delhi-vandalised-alumnus-smriti-irani-to-visit-739239 |url-status=live }} Later, she enrolled in School of Open Learning at University of Delhi.{{cite news |title='Class 12 pass' and education minister? |url=http://www.firstpost.com/politics/class-12-pass-and-education-minister-no-madhu-kishwar-tells-smriti-irani-1545245.html |access-date=27 May 2014 |newspaper=First Post |archive-date=30 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140530014615/http://www.firstpost.com/politics/class-12-pass-and-education-minister-no-madhu-kishwar-tells-smriti-irani-1545245.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Smriti goes back to School |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/tv/news-interviews/Smriti-goes-back-to-school/articleshow/7204688.cms |newspaper=TOI |access-date=27 May 2014 |archive-date=3 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403180652/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/tv/news-interviews/Smriti-goes-back-to-school/articleshow/7204688.cms |url-status=live }} In 2019, she revealed that she had written her first year B.Com. exams from that institution, but had not completed the three-year degree course.{{cite news |title=In Poll Affidavit, Union Minister Smriti Irani Says She's Not a Graduate |url=https://www.news18.com/news/politics/smriti-irani-in-her-poll-affidavit-admits-she-did-not-complete-her-graduation-2099323.html |access-date=13 April 2019 |work=News18 |date=11 April 2019 |archive-date=13 April 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413095705/https://www.news18.com/news/politics/smriti-irani-in-her-poll-affidavit-admits-she-did-not-complete-her-graduation-2099323.html |url-status=live }}

In 2001, Smriti married a Parsi businessman, Zubin Irani. In October the same year, the couple had their first child, a son named Zohr.{{cite news |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2002/20020310/spectrum/main8.htm |title=Playing Tulsi and Sita with elan |work=The Tribune |date=10 March 2002 |access-date=19 September 2013 |archive-date=19 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519094904/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2002/20020310/spectrum/main8.htm |url-status=live }} In September 2003, the couple had their second child, a daughter named Zoish. Smriti is also a stepmother to Shanelle who is Zubin Irani's daughter from his previous marriage to Mona Irani, a coordinator and former beauty contestant.{{cite news |title=Smriti Irani posts pic of family celebrating Amethi win. Don't miss Twinkle Khanna's comment on it |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/trending-news/story/smriti-irani-posts-pic-of-family-celebrating-amethi-win-don-t-miss-twinkle-khanna-s-comment-on-it-1534525-2019-05-25?ref=taboola |access-date=21 June 2019 |work=India Today |date=25 May 2019 |archive-date=16 June 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190616032852/https://www.indiatoday.in/trending-news/story/smriti-irani-posts-pic-of-family-celebrating-amethi-win-don-t-miss-twinkle-khanna-s-comment-on-it-1534525-2019-05-25?ref=taboola |url-status=live }}

In 2018, responding to queries about her faith, she stated that she is a practising Hindu married to a practising Zoroastrian, and that wearing sindoor is her belief as a Hindu.{{cite news |date=23 October 2018 |title=Yet to find a person |work=The Statesman |url=https://www.thestatesman.com/india/yet-to-find-a-person-who-takes-blood-soaked-napkin-to-offer-to-anyone-smriti-irani-1502699955.html |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=17 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717111402/https://www.thestatesman.com/india/yet-to-find-a-person-who-takes-blood-soaked-napkin-to-offer-to-anyone-smriti-irani-1502699955.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://news.abplive.com/news/india/smriti-irani-slams-twitter-user-on-asking-gotra-says-sindoor-is-my-belief-now-get-back-to-your-life-785364 |title=Smriti Irani slams Twitter user on asking Gotra, says 'Sindoor is my belief. Now get back to your life' |work=ABP News |date=28 November 2018 |access-date=17 July 2021 |archive-date=17 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210717111402/https://news.abplive.com/news/india/smriti-irani-slams-twitter-user-on-asking-gotra-says-sindoor-is-my-belief-now-get-back-to-your-life-785364 |url-status=live }}

Often described as the journey of a middle-class woman from ‘bahu’ of Television world, her role as a television actress to becoming the Vice-President of the Bharatiya Janata Party's Maharashtra Youth Wing, Smriti Irani's career spans multiple fields, including her early work as a McDonald's employee, Miss India contestant, model, and television personality, before transitioning into a prominent political leader.

Smriti Irani began her career with humble beginnings, working at India’s first McDonald’s outlet.{{cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/up-close/story/20140526-smriti-irani-profile-mcdonalds-801217-2014-05-16 |title=Smriti Irani: From McDonald's to HRD Minister |work=India Today |date=16 May 2014 |access-date=27 October 2023}} She later participated in the Miss India pageant, where she was a top 10 finalist.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/tv/news/smriti-iranis-journey-from-miss-india-contestant-to-union-minister/articleshow/69595511.cms |title=Smriti Irani's journey from Miss India contestant to Union Minister |work=The Times of India |date=24 May 2019 |access-date=27 October 2023}} Irani subsequently entered the television industry, gaining widespread recognition for her role as ‘Tulsi’ in the popular daily soap opera Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, a character that became widely popular across Indian households and neighbouring countries.{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/smriti-irani-at-45-a-look-at-her-journey-from-kyunki-saas-bhi-kabhi-bahu-thi-to-minister/article34533008.ece |title=Smriti Irani at 45: A look at her journey from Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi to Minister |work=The Hindu |date=23 March 2021 |access-date=27 October 2023}}

Smriti Irani started became as a BJP karyakarta in 2003 that is during her television days.{{cite news |url=https://www.livemint.com/Politics/57t127LqWJ2Y35zLd19i7J/Smriti-Irani-From-TV-star-to-key-BJP-leader.html |title=Smriti Irani: From TV star to key BJP leader |work=Livemint |date=24 May 2019 |access-date=27 October 2023}} Smriti has held and served numerous prominent positions, from being elected as Vice-President of the Maharashtra Youth Wing of BJP, Executive Member of the BJP's Central Committee, National Secretary of BJP, All India President of BJP Mahila Morcha, and elected to the Rajya Sabha as a member from Gujarat.{{cite news |url=https://www.news18.com/news/politics/smriti-irani-a-look-at-her-political-journey-from-tv-star-to-cabinet-minister-2160161.html |title=Smriti Irani: A Look at Her Political Journey From TV Star to Cabinet Minister |work=News18 |date=24 May 2019 |access-date=27 October 2023}} She has served as the Minister of Human Resource Development, Minister of Textiles in the Government of India, and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Information and Broadcasting.{{cite news |url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=158300 |title=Cabinet Reshuffle: Smriti Irani gets Textiles, Javadekar HRD |work=Press Information Bureau, Government of India |date=5 July 2016 |access-date=27 October 2023}} She was also elected to the 17th Lok Sabha and served as Union Cabinet Minister for both the Ministry of Women and Child Development and the Ministry of Minority Affairs.{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/smriti-irani-gets-women-and-child-development-minority-affairs-portfolios/article65529949.ece |title=Smriti Irani gets Women and Child Development, Minority Affairs portfolios |work=The Hindu |date=6 July 2022 |access-date=27 October 2023}}

Irani was one of the participants of the beauty pageant Miss India 1998 but couldn't reach the top 9, along with Gauri Pradhan Tejwani.{{cite news |url=http://www.firstpost.com/politics/smriti-irani-from-miss-india-finalist-to-tulsi-to-cabinet-minister-1542563.html |title=Smriti Irani: From model to TV's favourite bahu to Cabinet minister |work=Firstpost |date=26 May 2014 |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=28 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140528234912/http://www.firstpost.com/politics/smriti-irani-from-miss-india-finalist-to-tulsi-to-cabinet-minister-1542563.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/smriti-irani-picture-in-shorts-goes-viral-on-internet/1/364270.html |title=The Smriti of yesterday |work=India Today |date=29 May 2014 |access-date=31 July 2014 |archive-date=15 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115055228/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/smriti-irani-picture-in-shorts-goes-viral-on-internet/1/364270.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/health/report-a-little-too-fat-1253901 |title=A little too fat |work=Daily News & Analysis |date=7 May 2009 |access-date=1 August 2014 |archive-date=15 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915124409/https://www.dnaindia.com/health/report-a-little-too-fat-1253901 |url-status=live }} In 1998, Irani appeared in a song "Boliyan" of the album "Saawan Mein Lag Gayi Aag" with Mika Singh.{{cite web|date=28 May 2014|title=Smriti Irani's transition from an aspiring model to a successful politician|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/140527/entertainment-tvmusic/gallery/smriti-irani-model-minister|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140528093240/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/140527/entertainment-tvmusic/gallery/smriti-irani-model-minister|url-status=dead|archive-date=28 May 2014|publisher=Deccan Chronicle}}{{cite web |url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/NAT-TOP-music-video-goes-viral-bjp-amethi-candidate-smriti-irani-dancing-with-singer-mik-4572256-NOR.html |title=Viral music video: BJP's Amethi candidate Smriti Irani dancing with singer Mika Singh |work=Daily Bhaskar |date=7 April 2014 |access-date=1 June 2014 |archive-date=5 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605120351/http://daily.bhaskar.com/article/NAT-TOP-music-video-goes-viral-bjp-amethi-candidate-smriti-irani-dancing-with-singer-mik-4572256-NOR.html |url-status=dead }} In 2000, she made her acting début with TV series Aatish and Hum Hain Kal Aaj Aur Kal, both of which aired on Star Plus. Apart from this, she acted in Kavita on DD metro. In 2000, Irani bagged the lead role of Tulsi Virani in Ekta Kapoor's production Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi on Star Plus for which she holds the record of winning five consecutive ITA Award for Best Actress Popular and four Indian Telly Awards. Kyunki.. was the most successful serial at that time, largely attributed to Irani's performance and chemistry with lead actors Amar Upadhyay and Ronit Roy.{{cite web | title = "25 Years of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi " |publisher=Kovid Gupta Films| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSYew-BvtNM|date=2025| accessdate =29 April 2025|via=YouTube}} Irani had a fallout with the producer Ekta Kapoor and she left the show in June 2007 and was replaced by Gautami Kapoor. She made her comeback in May 2008 in a special episode, reconciling with Kapoor. In November 2008, Kyunki came to an end, leading to Irani's decline on TV. Irani's Tulsi avatar became a cultural phenomenon as she was seen as TV's highest paid actress at that time.{{cite web|date=29 April 2005|title=Smriti Irani: I don't watch Kyunki|url=http://www.rediff.com/movies/2005/aug/29smriti.htm|work=Rediff.com|access-date=13 February 2013|archive-date=25 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121025024624/http://www.rediff.com/movies/2005/aug/29smriti.htm|url-status=live}}

In 2002, she played the epic character Sita in Zee TV's Ramayan along with Nitish Bharadwaj{{Cite web|date=5 June 2009|title=Smriti turns to comedy|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/content/6463/smriti-turns-comedy.html|website=Deccan Herald|access-date=20 July 2020|archive-date=20 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720080830/https://www.deccanherald.com/content/6463/smriti-turns-comedy.html|url-status=live}} In 2006, Irani co-produced the show Thodi Si Zameen Thoda Sa Aasmaan under her banner Ugraya Entertainment and co-produced by Balaji Telefilms. She also played the lead role of Uma in it. In 2007, she produced the TV serial Virrudh for Sony TV and also portrayed the lead character of Vasudha in it. She produced Mere Apne for 9X and portrayed the protagonist alongside Vinod Khanna. She acted in a supporting role in Zee TV's Teen Bahuraaniyaan.{{cite news |title=Playing Tulsi and Sita with elan |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2002/20020310/spectrum/main8.htm |access-date=12 April 2014 |newspaper=The Tribune |date=10 March 2002 |archive-date=19 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140519094904/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2002/20020310/spectrum/main8.htm |url-status=live }}

In 2008, Irani along with Sakshi Tanwar hosted the show Yeh Hai Jalwa, a dance based reality show featuring celebrities along with their troops on 9X. In the same year she produced another show on Zee TV, Waaris which ended in 2009. In 2009, she appeared in a comedy show Maniben.com, aired on SAB TV. She also co-produced the show in collaboration with Contiloe Entertainment. In 2012, she worked in Bengali movie Amrita.{{cite news|last=Dubey|first=Rachana|date=23 February 2010|title=Smriti Irani to debut in Bengali film industry|work=Hindustan Times|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/news-feed/archives/smriti-irani-to-enter-cinema/article1-511987.aspx|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140313025026/http://www.hindustantimes.com/news-feed/archives/smriti-irani-to-enter-cinema/article1-511987.aspx|archive-date=13 March 2014}}{{cite news|last=Chatterji|first=Shoma A.|date=19 April 2012|title=Soppy sentimental Bengali debut of Smriti Irani|work=The Indian Express|url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/soppy-sentimental-bengali-debut-of-smriti-irani/938299/|access-date=26 May 2014|archive-date=5 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305083419/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/soppy-sentimental-bengali-debut-of-smriti-irani/938299/|url-status=live}}

From the character ‘Tulsi’, Irani’s name resonated almost with every household and people to could easily connect with the character and the storyline. It was the most popular character in the Television serial. The character ‘Tulsi’ was sensation as was the soap opera Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. There have been many records created while this serial was telecasted. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was the first serial in the Television history of India to surpass 1000+ episodes to air.{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/hindi/kyunki-saas-bhi-kabhi-bahu-thi-completes-20-years-ekta-recalls-how-she-was-given-rs-1-4-lakh-for-making-the-show/articleshow/76769271.cms |title=Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi completes 20 years; Ekta recalls how she was given Rs. 1.4 lakh for making the show |author=TIMESOFINDIA.COM |website=TIMESOFINDIA.COM |date=20 June 2020 }} It maintained highest TRP (Target rating point) for consecutive 5 weeks in a row. The show was aired on Star Plus for 8 years and re-release had viewership of 77 million and is a world record in the entertainment industry.

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was an Indian drama aired on StarPlus and later in Afghanistan from 2002 to 2010. The show was dubbed into Dari and broadcast on TOLO (TV Channel). It became the most popular television show in Afghan history. It is credited with driving a significant increase in the sales of generator sets and causing absences from religious functions that coincided with its airtime.{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/rest-of-world/saas-bahu-soap-enthralls-afghanistan/articleshow/1536446.cms |title=Saas-bahu soap enthralls Afghanistan |author=Agencies |website=timesofindia.indiatimes.com |date=18 May 2006 }} The show captured the public imagination in Afghanistan to such an extent that, in this deeply conservative Islamic society where family issues are often kept private, it became the dominant topic of discussion around family matters. There were even reports of wedding banquets being interrupted so that guests could gather around the television for a half-hour to watch the show.

The show had a profound and complex cultural impact in Afghanistan. The show significantly influenced attitudes towards women, family values, and entertainment practices. It had played a crucial role in bringing people together and promoting shared culture in Afghanistan. TV show influenced the perception of women's roles and rights in Afghanistan, especially among the younger generation. The family struggles, love, and relationships portrayed in the show have helped the audience remain connected to their culture. The show have promoted a sense of strong family bonds and cooperation. The strong and self-reliant female characters portrayed in these shows helped empower women and encouraged them to speak up for their rights. Afghans were able to relate to and connect with the traditional values portrayed in the serial.{{cite web |url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/tulsi-the-most-popular-bahu-of-afghanistan-284663.html |title=Tulsi, the most popular ‘bahu’ of Afghanistan |author=ANI |website=news18.com |date=7 March 2008 }}

File:PM Modi at the Conference of Chairmen of Boards of Governors, and Directors of IITs at Rashtrapati Bhawan.jpg

File:Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani taking charge as the Union Minister for Human Resource Development, in New Delhi on May 27, 2014.jpg

Irani joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2003.{{cite news |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-smriti-irani-is-a-front-runner-for-the-hrd-ministry-here-s-what-you-need-to-know-about-her-journey-from-reel-to-real-1973917 |title=Smriti Irani is a front runner for the HRD ministry: Here's what you need to know about her journey from reel to real |work=Daily News & Analysis |date=26 May 2014 |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=27 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140527215754/http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-smriti-irani-is-a-front-runner-for-the-hrd-ministry-here-s-what-you-need-to-know-about-her-journey-from-reel-to-real-1973917 |url-status=live }} The following year, she was appointed vice-president of the Maharashtra Youth Wing in 2004.{{cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2004/jan/08bjp.htm |title=Smriti Irani is now Vice-President of Yuva Morcha |work=Rediff News |date=8 January 2004 |access-date=13 February 2013 |archive-date=19 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200919103145/https://www.rediff.com/news/2004/jan/08bjp.htm |url-status=live }} In the general elections held that year for the 14th Lok Sabha, she contested unsuccessfully against Kapil Sibal from the Chandni Chowk constituency in Delhi. That election witnessed a shock defeat for the incumbent Vajpayee government. In December 2004, Irani, blaming then Gujarat Chief Minister, Narendra Modi for BJP's electoral losses, threatened to fast unto death until he resigned.{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Tulsi-to-go-on-fast-unto-death/articleshow/956389.cms |title=Tulsi to go on fast unto death |work=The Times of India |date=12 December 2004 |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=8 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108130425/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Tulsi-to-go-on-fast-unto-death/articleshow/956389.cms |url-status=live }} She retracted this demand after the BJP's central leadership threatened to take action against her.{{cite news |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/2004/dec/17kanch.htm |title=Kyunki BJP kabhi different thi |work=Rediff News |date=16 December 2004 |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=7 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207200149/https://www.rediff.com/news/2004/dec/17kanch.htm |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-once-a-critic-smriti-irani-now-hardsells-narendra-modi-s-image-to-woo-voters-1979655 |title=Once a critic, Smriti Irani now hardsells Narendra Modi's image to woo voters |work=Daily News & Analysis |date=18 April 2014 |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=7 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207200225/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-once-a-critic-smriti-irani-now-hardsells-narendra-modi-s-image-to-woo-voters-1979655 |url-status=live }}

Irani was nominated as executive member of the central committee of the BJP.{{cite news |title=TV actor-turned-politician Smriti Irani to face Rahul Gandhi in Amethi |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/smriti-irani-rahul-gandhi-amethi-bjp-congress-2014-lok-sabha-polls/1/352814.html |access-date=12 April 2014 |newspaper=India Today |date=4 April 2014 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304104500/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/smriti-irani-rahul-gandhi-amethi-bjp-congress-2014-lok-sabha-polls/1/352814.html |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.bjp.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8075:press-bjp-mahila-morcha-president-smt-smriti-irani&catid=68:press-releases&Itemid=494 |title=Press statement issued by BJP Mahila Morcha President, Smt. Smriti Irani |access-date=25 May 2014 |archive-date=18 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518091141/http://www.bjp.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8075:press-bjp-mahila-morcha-president-smt-smriti-irani&catid=68:press-releases&Itemid=494 |url-status=live }} During the campaign for the 2009 parliamentary elections, while campaigning for Vijay Goel in the New Delhi constituency, Irani voiced her concern for women's safety in the city and advocated capital punishment for rapists as a deterrent.{{cite web |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/smriti-irani-advocates-capital-punishment-for-rapists/453757/ |title=Smriti Irani advocates 'capital punishment' for rapists |work=The Indian Express |date=2 May 2009 |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=5 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305083307/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/smriti-irani-advocates-capital-punishment-for-rapists/453757/ |url-status=live }} In early 2010, Irani was appointed National Secretary of BJP and on 24 June, she was appointed All India President of the BJP's women's wing, BJP Mahila Morcha.{{Cite web |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/smriti-irani-takes-over-as-bjp-mahila-morcha-prez/638033 |title=Smriti Irani takes over as BJP Mahila Morcha prez - Indian Express |website=The Indian Express |access-date=20 December 2019 |archive-date=15 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915124433/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/smriti-irani-takes-over-as-bjp-mahila-morcha-prez/638033 |url-status=live }} As National President of BJP Women's Wing, she successfully pursued Permanent Commission for Women in the Indian Army by facilitating legal aid to women officers who held temporary commission and were agitating for permanent commission.{{Cite web |url=https://wcd.nic.in/about-us/meet-cabinet-minister |title=Meet the Cabinet Minister {{!}} Ministry of Women & Child Development {{!}} GoI |website=wcd.nic.in |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=5 April 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200405230932/https://wcd.nic.in/about-us/meet-cabinet-minister |url-status=live }}

In August 2011, Irani finally entered parliament. She was sworn in as a member of parliament from Gujarat to the Rajya Sabha.{{Cite web |url=http://www.bjp.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7247:bjp-mahila-morcha-national-president-mp-smt-smriti-irani&catid=68:press-releases&Itemid=494 |title=Smriti Irani is Member of Parliament from BJP |access-date=20 December 2019 |archive-date=23 September 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923191635/http://www.bjp.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7247:bjp-mahila-morcha-national-president-mp-smt-smriti-irani&catid=68:press-releases&Itemid=494 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=http://www.archive.india.gov.in/govt/rajyasabhampbiodata.php?mpcode=2180 |title=Detailed Profile – Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani |access-date=25 May 2014 |archive-date=26 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180926205543/https://archive.india.gov.in/govt/rajyasabhampbiodata.php?mpcode=2180 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Smriti-Irani-to-head-BJPs-women-wing-in-Himachal/articleshow/6052481.cms |title=Smriti Irani to head BJP's women wing in Himachal |work=The Times of India |date=16 June 2010 |access-date=21 February 2014 |archive-date=7 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200207151642/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Smriti-Irani-to-head-BJPs-women-wing-in-Himachal/articleshow/6052481.cms |url-status=live }}

Irani contested the 2014 general elections against Rahul Gandhi in Amethi constituency of Uttar Pradesh.{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/lok-sabha-elections-2014/news/Lok-Sabha-polls-BJP-fields-Smriti-Irani-against-Rahul-Gandhi-in-Amethi/articleshow/33033881.cms |title=Lok Sabha polls: BJP fields Smriti Irani against Rahul Gandhi in Amethi |work=The Times of India |date=1 April 2014 |access-date=3 April 2014 |archive-date=3 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140403074024/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/lok-sabha-elections-2014/news/Lok-Sabha-polls-BJP-fields-Smriti-Irani-against-Rahul-Gandhi-in-Amethi/articleshow/33033881.cms |url-status=live }} Irani lost to Gandhi by 1,07,923 votes, a 12.32% margin.{{cite web |url=http://eciresults.nic.in/ConstituencywiseS2437.htm |title=Constituencywise-All Candidates |publisher=ECI |access-date=26 May 2014 |archive-date=18 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140518233845/http://eciresults.nic.in/Constituencywises2437.htm? |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/archiveofge2009/Stats/VOLI/25_ConstituencyWiseDetailedResult.pdf |title=Constituency Wise Detailed Results |page=153 |publisher=Election Commission of India |access-date=30 April 2014 |archive-date=2 August 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130802000135/http://eci.nic.in/eci_main/archiveofge2009/Stats/VOLI/25_ConstituencyWiseDetailedResult.pdf |url-status=live }} On 26 May 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi appointed her as the Minister of Human Resource Development in his cabinet.{{cite news |url=http://www.firstpost.com/india/modis-complete-cabinet-jaitley-gets-finance-smriti-human-resources-1544129.html |title=Modi's complete cabinet: Jaitley gets Finance, Smriti Human Resources |work=Firstpost |date=27 May 2014 |access-date=27 May 2014 |archive-date=30 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140530014453/http://www.firstpost.com/india/modis-complete-cabinet-jaitley-gets-finance-smriti-human-resources-1544129.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/lok-sabha-elections-2014/news/Youngest-and-oldest-in-Modis-team-are-women--Smriti-Irani-and-Najma-Heptullah/articleshow/35622586.cms |title=Youngest and oldest in Modi's team are women – Smriti Irani and Najma Heptullah |work=The Times of India |date=26 May 2014 |access-date=27 May 2014 |archive-date=27 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140527192304/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/lok-sabha-elections-2014/news/Youngest-and-oldest-in-Modis-team-are-women--Smriti-Irani-and-Najma-Heptullah/articleshow/35622586.cms |url-status=live }} Her appointment was criticised by many people owing to her lack of formal higher education.{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Row-over-Smriti-Iranis-educational-qualifications-snowballs-its-Congress-vs-Congress-now/articleshow/35677801.cms |title=Row over Smriti Irani's educational qualifications snowballs, it's Congress vs Congress now |work=The Times of India |agency=PTI |date=28 May 2014 |access-date=26 July 2022 |archive-date=25 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220725161812/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Row-over-Smriti-Iranis-educational-qualifications-snowballs-its-Congress-vs-Congress-now/articleshow/35677801.cms |url-status=live }}{{cite news |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/12th-pass-Smriti-Irani-not-fit-for-HRD-Madhu-Kishwar/articleshow/35650903.cms |title=12th pass Smriti Irani not fit for HRD: Madhu Kishwar |work=The Times of India |agency=PTI |date=28 May 2014 |access-date=25 March 2018 |archive-date=11 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181011085002/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/12th-pass-Smriti-Irani-not-fit-for-HRD-Madhu-Kishwar/articleshow/35650903.cms |url-status=live }}{{cite magazine |last=Sengupta |first=Uttam |date=20 April 2015 |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/magazine/story/i-wouldnt-trust-her-with-jam-and-pickle-ministry/293992 |title='I Wouldn't Trust Her With Jam And Pickle Ministry |magazine=Outlook |access-date=25 July 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160217213128/https://www.outlookindia.com/magazine/story/i-wouldnt-trust-her-with-jam-and-pickle-ministry/293992 |archive-date=17 February 2016}}

Irani has been accused of misrepresenting her educational qualifications.{{Cite web |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/DU-suspends-5-for-leaking-Smriti-Irani-documents/articleshow/35804058.cms |title=DU suspends 5 for leaking Smriti Irani documents |website=The Times of India |access-date=27 February 2016 |archive-date=13 October 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141013081800/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/DU-suspends-5-for-leaking-Smriti-Irani-documents/articleshow/35804058.cms |url-status=live }} Conflicting affidavits were allegedly submitted by her while filing for different elections.{{Cite web |url=http://www.rediff.com/news/report/the-strange-case-of-smriti-irani-ba-pass-in-2004-undergrad-in-2014/20140528.htm |title=The strange case of Smriti Irani: BA pass in 2004, undergrad in 2014 |website=Rediff |access-date=27 February 2016 |archive-date=7 December 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191207195951/https://www.rediff.com/news/report/the-strange-case-of-smriti-irani-ba-pass-in-2004-undergrad-in-2014/20140528.htm |url-status=live }} In June 2015, a lower court held that the allegations against Irani were maintainable and a delay in prosecution was not a valid reason for dismissal.{{Cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/now-smriti-in-trouble-over-her-educational-qualifications/article7351639.ece |title=Now, Smriti in trouble over her educational qualifications |date=25 June 2015 |newspaper=The Hindu |issn=0971-751X |access-date=27 February 2016 |archive-date=15 September 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915124443/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/now-smriti-in-trouble-over-her-educational-qualifications/article7351639.ece |url-status=live }} Irani asked people to file a PIL about her educational qualification to know about the truth behind the affidavit controversy.{{cite web |url=http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-TOP-smriti-irani-has-degree-from-yale-university-asks-to-file-pil-to-unmask-poll-aff-4708804-NOR.html |title=Smriti Irani has a degree from Yale University? HRD minister asks to file PIL to unmask poll affidavit issue |work=dailybhaskar |date=10 August 2014 |access-date=8 November 2014 |archive-date=8 November 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141108210922/http://daily.bhaskar.com/news/NAT-TOP-smriti-irani-has-degree-from-yale-university-asks-to-file-pil-to-unmask-poll-aff-4708804-NOR.html |url-status=dead }}

Irani implemented various reforms in universities during her term as HRD minister.{{Cite web |last=Mohan |first=Rohini |date=1 November 2016 |title=Smriti Irani's rise from soap star to union minister |url=https://caravanmagazine.in/reportage/role-of-a-lifetime-smriti-irani |access-date=25 July 2021 |website=The Caravan |language=en |archive-date=13 July 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210713074915/https://caravanmagazine.in/reportage/role-of-a-lifetime-smriti-irani |url-status=live }} Irani made a speech in Parliament in which she discussed the 2016 JNU sedition controversy and the Suicide of Rohith Vemula.{{Cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Smriti-Irani-on-JNU-row-and-Rohith-Vemula-suicide-10-quotes/articleshow/51125748.cms? |title='My name is Smriti Irani. I challenge you to tell me my caste' – Times of India |website=The Times of India |date=24 February 2016 |access-date=1 March 2016 |archive-date=29 February 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160229073339/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Smriti-Irani-on-JNU-row-and-Rohith-Vemula-suicide-10-quotes/articleshow/51125748.cms |url-status=live }} University of Hyderabad doctor Rajashree M contradicted some claims made by Irani regarding the circumstances of Rohith's death.{{Cite news |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Hyderabad-university-doctor-counters-Smriti-Irani-says-Rohith-was-dead-when-she-reached-hostel/articleshow/51142603.cms |title=Hyderabad university doctor counters Smriti Irani, says 'Rohith was dead when she reached hostel' – Times of India |website=The Times of India |date=26 February 2016 |access-date=1 March 2016 |archive-date=1 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160301025309/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/hyderabad-university-doctor-counters-smriti-irani-says-rohith-was-dead-when-she-reached-hostel/articleshow/51142603.cms |url-status=live }}

She announced to start new yoga departments in six new universities in June 2016.{{citation |title=At least 6 universities to begin yoga departments next year: Smriti Irani |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/smriti-irani-human-resource-development-minister-at-least-6-universities-to-begin-international-yoga-day-departments-next-year-2861483 |work=The Indian Express |date=18 June 2016 |agency=Press Trust of India |access-date=19 June 2016 |archive-date=18 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160618163356/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/smriti-irani-human-resource-development-minister-at-least-6-universities-to-begin-international-yoga-day-departments-next-year-2861483/ |url-status=live }}

In July 2016, in a cabinet reshuffle Irani was shuffled to the Ministry of Textiles from MHRD.{{Cite web |url=https://www.india.com/news/india/big-time-shuffle-in-narendra-modi-cabinet-here-are-the-changes-made-1311769/ |title=Big time shuffle in Narendra Modi Cabinet: Here are the changes made |last=Shaikh |first=Mohammed Uzair |date=5 July 2016 |website=Latest India News, Breaking News, Entertainment News {{!}} India.com |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173332/https://www.india.com/news/india/big-time-shuffle-in-narendra-modi-cabinet-here-are-the-changes-made-1311769/ |url-status=live }}

In July 2017, she was handed the additional charge of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (India) when former Minister Venkaiah Naidu resigned from the ministry to take part in vice-presidential elections.{{Cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/smriti-irani-gets-ib-ministry-ds-tomar-gets-urban-development-ministry/articleshow/59644413.cms |title=Smriti Irani gets I&B ministry, NS Tomar given urban development ministry |website=The Times of India |date=18 July 2017 |access-date=11 August 2020 |archive-date=9 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109033242/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/smriti-irani-gets-ib-ministry-ds-tomar-gets-urban-development-ministry/articleshow/59644413.cms |url-status=live }}

In 2019, Irani became a member of parliament for Amethi constituency after winning the Lok Sabha seat in the 2019 general elections from Rahul Gandhi.{{Cite web |title=Election Results 2019: Smriti Irani Defeats Rahul Gandhi In Amethi, And Twitter Can't Even... |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-smriti-irani-defeats-rahul-gandhi-in-amethi-and-twitter-cant-even-2042320 |access-date=22 January 2022 |website=NDTV.com |archive-date=22 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122233336/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-results-2019-smriti-irani-defeats-rahul-gandhi-in-amethi-and-twitter-cant-even-2042320 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=24 May 2019 |title=Election results 2019: Rahul Gandhi concedes defeat as Smriti Irani springs surprise in Amethi |url=https://indianexpress.com/elections/lok-sabha-elections-2019-results-amethi-congress-bjp-rahul-gandhi-smriti-irani-narendra-modi-5735845/ |access-date=22 January 2022 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |archive-date=22 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220122233336/https://indianexpress.com/elections/lok-sabha-elections-2019-results-amethi-congress-bjp-rahul-gandhi-smriti-irani-narendra-modi-5735845/ |url-status=live }} In the 2024 elections Irani lost to Congress Loyalist Kishore Lal Sharma in Amethi by a margin of 1,67,196 votes.{{cite news |last1=Prabhu |first1=Sunil |last2=Sanyal |first2=Anindita |date=5 June 2024 |title="How's The Josh? I Say...": Smriti Irani After Losing Amethi |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-results-live-union-minister-smriti-irani-trails-in-amethi-congress-candidate-leads-5813068 |work=NDTV |access-date=5 June 2024 |archive-date=4 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240604222856/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/lok-sabha-election-2024-results-live-union-minister-smriti-irani-trails-in-amethi-congress-candidate-leads-5813068 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Bullish Wins & Bearish Losses: Here are the key contests and results of 2024 Lok Sabha polls |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/india/bullish-wins-bearish-losses-here-are-the-key-contests-of-2024-lok-sabha-results/articleshow/110713130.cms |work=Economic Times |date=6 June 2024 |access-date=27 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727153249/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/india/bullish-wins-bearish-losses-here-are-the-key-contests-of-2024-lok-sabha-results/articleshow/110713130.cms |archive-date=27 July 2024}}

— 2024 : She lost parliamentary constituency Amethi.

— 2022 : Union Cabinet Minister, Ministry of Minority Affairs.

— 2019 : Elected to the 17th Lok Sabha. Union Cabinet Minister, Ministry of Women and Child Development.

— 2017 : Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Information and Broadcasting from 18 July 2017 to 14 May 2018.

— 2016 : Became Minister of Textiles in the Government of India.

— 2014 : Contested Loksabha Elections from Amethi against Rahul Gandhi. Became Minister of Human Resource Development. She also served as a Member of the Committee on Coal and Steel, Parliamentary Forum on Disaster Management, and Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Urban Development.

— 2012 : Appointed as a member of the Indian Parliamentary delegation to the 126th General Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Kampala, Uganda.

— 2011 : Elected to the Rajya Sabha as a member from Gujarat.

— 2010 : Appointed National Secretary of BJP. Became All India President of BJP's women's wing, BJP Mahila Morcha.

— 2004 : Became vice-president of the Maharashtra Youth Wing of BJP. Contested in Delhi Assembly Elections from Chandni Chowk constituency. Inducted into the Central Committee of BJP as executive member despite losing the election.

— 2003 : She joined the Bharatiya Janata Party's Maharashtra wing.

Smriti Irani was the youngest minister in the cabinet of Narendra Modi. She was also the first woman to hold office as the Union Minister for Human Resource Development and Union Minister of Textiles. She was also the youngest woman to be nominated to the Rajya Sabha.{{Cite web |url=http://www.mindminesummit.com/Smriti-Z-Irani.html |title=MindMine Summit |website=mindminesummit.com |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173712/http://www.mindminesummit.com/Smriti-Z-Irani.html |url-status=live }} Some of her key achievements in various portfolios held by her have been listed below:

In her term as the HRD minister, Irani undertook a number of decisions which helped in improving the quality, inclusivity and outcome of education in the country. Some of the key achievements have been listed as under:

1. The Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN){{Cite web |url=https://gian.iitkgp.ac.in/cgenmenu/guidelines |title=Global Initiative of Academic Networks GIAN) |website=gian.iitkgp.ac.in |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=28 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128085503/https://gian.iitkgp.ac.in/cgenmenu/guidelines |url-status=live }} was launched by the Minister post the retreat of IITs in 2014. The network is an initiative within the Higher Education sector aimed at tapping the talent pool of scientists and entrepreneurs, internationally to encourage their engagement with the institutes of Higher Education in India so as to augment the country's existing academic resources, accelerate the pace of quality reform, and elevate India's scientific and technological capacity to global excellence.{{Cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/gian-launched-275175-2015-12-01 |title=Smriti Irani launches GIAN to boost higher education with international collaboration |newspaper=India Today |access-date=27 January 2020 |agency=Ist |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173617/https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/news/story/gian-launched-275175-2015-12-01 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://gian.iitkgp.ac.in/ |title=Global Initiative of Academic Networks GIAN) |website=gian.iitkgp.ac.in |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173338/https://gian.iitkgp.ac.in/ |url-status=live }}
2. Udaan Yojana and Pragati Scheme launched in 2014 by Irani aims to address the low enrolment of girls in engineering colleges. The scheme has been designed to provide a comprehensive platform to deserving girl students who aspire to pursue higher education in engineering and assist them in preparing for the IIT-JEE while studying in Classes XI and XII.{{Cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/government-kicks-off-bal-swachhta-mission-udaan-scheme-for-girls/articleshow/45152184.cms |title=Government kicks off Bal Swachhta Mission, Udaan scheme for girls |date=14 November 2014 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=11 April 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210411145812/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/Government-kicks-off-Bal-Swachhta-Mission-Udaan-scheme-for-girls/articleshow/45152184.cms |url-status=live }} By 2016, 143 of the 300 girls under the scheme had cleared JEE.{{Cite web |url=https://zeenews.india.com/news/education/143-of-300-girls-cleared-jee-under-udaan-scheme-smriti-irani_1880831.html |title=143 of 300 girls cleared JEE under Udaan scheme: Smriti Irani |date=29 April 2016 |website=Zee News |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173819/https://zeenews.india.com/news/education/143-of-300-girls-cleared-jee-under-udaan-scheme-smriti-irani_1880831.html |url-status=live }} In the same year the Pragati Scheme was launched in order to provide financial support and encouragement to female students to pursue technical education.{{Cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/govt-has-launched-pragati-scholarship-for-girls-says-smriti-irani-114121100466_1.html |title=Govt. has launched "Pragati Scholarship" for girls, says Smriti Irani |date=11 December 2014 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127174121/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/govt-has-launched-pragati-scholarship-for-girls-says-smriti-irani-114121100466_1.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=Smriti Irani: New Education Policy Will Lead To Transformative Restructuring Of Education In India |url=https://www.ndtv.com/education/new-education-policy-will-lead-transformative-restructuring-of-education-in-india-smriti-irani |access-date=25 October 2020 |website=NDTV.com |language=en |archive-date=31 October 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031225741/https://www.ndtv.com/education/new-education-policy-will-lead-transformative-restructuring-of-education-in-india-smriti-irani |url-status=live }}
3. Know Your College Portal was launched in the year 2014 for helping a prospective student make a value judgement with regard to the selection of an appropriate college for pursuing higher education by providing the necessary information about the college.{{Cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/new-portal-to-help-students-make-decisions-regarding-colleges-114111101030_1.html |title=New portal to help students make decisions regarding colleges |date=11 November 2014 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173339/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/new-portal-to-help-students-make-decisions-regarding-colleges-114111101030_1.html |url-status=live }}
4. The IMPacting Research INnovation and Technology (IMPRINT) India Scheme, brainchild of Irani was launched by the former President, Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2015.{{Cite web |url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/mbErel.aspx?relid=130257 |title=Imprint India Launched by the President of India at the Visitor's Conference |website=pib.gov.in |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173331/https://pib.gov.in/newsite/mbErel.aspx%3Frelid%3D130257 |url-status=live }} It is the first of its kind MHRD supported Pan-IIT + IISc joint initiative to address the major science and engineering challenges that India must address and champion to enable, empower and embolden the nation for inclusive growth and self-reliance.{{Cite web |url=https://imprint-india.org/ |title=IMPRINT India Initiative |website=imprint-india.org |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=10 May 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200510230405/https://imprint-india.org/ |url-status=live }} Within a year of its launch 31 ministries and government departments have proposed to co-fund 229 research projects worth Rs 59,589 lakh at IITs and other premier Indian research institutes.{{Cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/single-window-funding-makes-its-imprint-on-campus-rd/articleshow/54554651.cms |title=Single-window funding makes its Imprint on campus R&D |last=Vishnoi |first=Anubhuti |date=28 September 2016 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=15 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230415184451/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/single-window-funding-makes-its-imprint-on-campus-rd/articleshow/54554651.cms |url-status=live }}
5. National institute Ranking Framework is an indigenous ranking framework for higher educational institutions launched by Irani in 2015, It will now allow the students seeking admission into colleges to assess the performance and quality level of different colleges.{{Cite web |url=https://www.livemint.com/Politics/xL8lvEoguDrF60gT3FO9EK/Govt-unveils-framework-to-rank-engineering-management-insti.html |title=Govt unveils indigenous ranking framework for higher education |last=Nanda |first=Prashant K. |date=29 September 2015 |website=Livemint |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173333/https://www.livemint.com/Politics/xL8lvEoguDrF60gT3FO9EK/Govt-unveils-framework-to-rank-engineering-management-insti.html |url-status=live }}
6. SWAYAM (Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds), launched in the year 2016 by Irani is a Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCS) platform, which aims at providing online courses, study material and course registration. It has been designed to achieve the three cardinal principles of Education Policy viz., access, equity and quality. It further aims to bridge the digital divide for students who have hitherto remained untouched by the digital revolution and have not been able to join the mainstream of the knowledge economy.{{Cite web |url=https://www.jagranjosh.com/articles/hrd-minster-smriti-irani-announces-mooc-swayam-new-online-higher-education-platform-1461925633-1 |title=HRD Minster Smriti Irani Announces MOOC- SWAYAM: New Online Higher Education Platform |date=29 April 2016 |website=Jagranjosh.com |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173333/https://www.jagranjosh.com/articles/hrd-minster-smriti-irani-announces-mooc-swayam-new-online-higher-education-platform-1461925633-1 |url-status=live }}
7. Veer Gatha series was launched by the HRD ministry under the leadership of Irani in the year 2016 as an initiative to take the stories of India's bravest of the brave soldiers to young school children and inspire them.{{Cite news |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/veer-gatha-govt-launches-major-inspirational-book-series-305509-2016-01-25 |title=Veer Gatha: Govt launches major inspirational book series |newspaper=India Today |access-date=27 January 2020 |agency=Ist |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173337/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/veer-gatha-govt-launches-major-inspirational-book-series-305509-2016-01-25 |url-status=live }}

File:Smt. Smriti Irani addressing the media persons, on taking charge as the Union Textiles Minister, in New Delhi on July 06, 2016.jpg

In July 2016, Irani was given charge of the Textiles Ministry, taking over from Santosh Kumar Gangwar.{{Cite web |url=http://www.indiantextilejournal.com/News.aspx?nId=DwR9SaEfrg2m4cQS1pGTkw==&NewsType=Smriti-Irani-is-the-new-Textiles-Minister-India-Sector |title=Indian Textiles Journal - The Indian Textile Journal - Technology & Trade info for tomorrow's Textile Industry. |website=indiantextilejournal.com |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127195113/https://indiantextilejournal.com/News.aspx?nId=DwR9SaEfrg2m4cQS1pGTkw==&NewsType=Smriti-Irani-is-the-new-Textiles-Minister-India-Sector |url-status=dead }} She held that portfolio for a full five years, until July 2021, having been re-appointed to the position after the parliamentary elections of 2019.{{Cite web |url=https://in.fashionnetwork.com/news/Smriti-irani-retains-textiles-ministry-portfolio,1104724.html |title=Smriti Irani retains textiles ministry portfolio |website=FashionNetwork.com |date=31 May 2019 |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173335/https://in.fashionnetwork.com/news/Smriti-irani-retains-textiles-ministry-portfolio,1104724.html |url-status=live }} Her contribution to the sector has been appreciated by various industry bodies like the textile council TEXPROCIL, the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India and the Indian Texpreneurs Federation (ITF).{{Cite press release |url=https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/texprocil-congratulates-ministry-of-textiles-for-significant-achievements-in-the-past-4-5-years-844675024.html |title=TEXPROCIL Congratulates Ministry of Textiles for Significant Achievements in the Past 4.5 Years |agency=PR Newswire |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173411/https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/texprocil-congratulates-ministry-of-textiles-for-significant-achievements-in-the-past-4-5-years-844675024.html |url-status=live }} Her significant initiatives as Minister of Textiles include:

1. Apparel Sector Special Package launched in the year 2018, is a Rs. 6,000 crore worth of package launched by Irani in 2016, aimed at strengthening the entire textile industry by providing financial support to small scale players in the industry.{{Cite web |url=http://www.simamills.in/latest-news/govts-rs-6000-cr-package-to-boost-apparel-sector-smriti-irani/ |title=Govt's Rs 6,000 cr package to boost apparel sector: Smriti Irani |website=www.simamills.in |access-date=27 January 2020}}
2. Support for Technical Textile, in a bid to fulfil the long-standing demand of the industry, in January 2019, Irani declare technical textile items as a separate category and declared that the government had notified 207 HSN codes as technical textiles. The said move is expected to benefit 900 million farmers in the country and will help the industry to grow over Rs 2 trillion (short scale) in the tech textile sector and help the potential investors to enter into technical textiles.{{Cite web |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/textiles-minister-calls-for-innovation-in-tech-textiles-sector/article26120165.ece |title=Textiles minister Smriti Irani calls for innovation in tech textiles sector |website=businessline |date=29 January 2019 |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173431/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/textiles-minister-calls-for-innovation-in-tech-textiles-sector/article26120165.ece |url-status=live }}
3. Special focus on the North Eastern Regions, during the first term of her tenure as the Minister of Textiles, 21 readymade garment manufacturing units in the north eastern region had been made functional. Special initiatives were taken to further push sericulture in the region, for which Rs. 690 crore had been earmarked.{{Cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/smriti-irani-highlights-achievements-key-initiatives-of-textile-ministry/articleshow/62906023.cms |title=Smriti Irani highlights achievements & key initiatives of textile ministry |date=13 February 2018 |first=Rumu |last=Banerjee |website=The Times of India |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=9 November 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109040719/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/smriti-irani-highlights-achievements-key-initiatives-of-textile-ministry/articleshow/62906023.cms |url-status=live }}
4. Silk Samagra Workshop was launched by Irani in 2018, which is an Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry for 3 years from 2017 to 2020. The main objective of the scheme is to maintain Breeders stock, Breed improvement through R&D Projects, Development of mechanised practices, Technology translation through Sericulture Information Linkages and Knowledge System (SILKS) Portal, Mobile Application for Stakeholders and for seed quality monitoring.{{Cite web |url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=192329 |title=Integrated Scheme for Development of Silk Industry |website=pib.gov.in |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173717/https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx%3Frelid%3D192329 |url-status=live }}
5. Samarth Scheme, is an aspirational initiative launched by Irani in her second term as the Union Minister for Textiles. The ministry has envisaged an expenditure of over Rs. 1,300 crore to upskill over 4 lakh workers in 16 states.{{Cite web |url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/textiles-ministry-partners-with-16-states-for-skilling-4-lakh-under-samarth-scheme/article29092868.ece |title=Textiles Ministry partners with 16 states for skilling 4 lakh under 'Samarth' scheme |website=@businessline |date=14 August 2019 |access-date=27 January 2020}}

File:Smt. Smriti Irani takes charge as the Minister of Information & Broadcasting, in New Delhi on July 18, 2017.jpg

1. The 48th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held under her watch in November 2017. For the first time, under the Accessible India Campaign of the Government of India, cinematic works were presented in audio-described format for the visually impaired.{{Cite web |url=http://www.5dariyanews.com/news/209815-Inviting-film-makers-to-India-is-the-endeavour-of-IFFI-Smriti-Irani |title=Inviting film makers to India is the endeavour of IFFI : Smriti Irani |website=5 Dariya News |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173821/https://www.5dariyanews.com/news/209815-Inviting-film-makers-to-India-is-the-endeavour-of-IFFI-Smriti-Irani |url-status=live }} Film star Shah Rukh Khan expressed his admiration in these words: "Great endeavour by I&B Minister Smriti Irani to make IFFI the most inclusive, relevant forum for Indian cinema. My unwavering support to you".{{Cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/srk-extends-support-to-iffi-2017-smriti-irani-grateful-117081900412_1.html |title=SRK extends support to IFFI 2017, Smriti Irani grateful |date=19 August 2017 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173333/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/srk-extends-support-to-iffi-2017-smriti-irani-grateful-117081900412_1.html |url-status=live }} The event was a star studded one, with Sridevi, AR Rahman, Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj and many other stars registering their presence at the event.{{Cite web |url=https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/iffi-2017-during-welcome-speech-smriti-irani-says-we-are-a-tolerant-government-4220125.html |title=IFFI 2017: During welcome speech, Smriti Irani says 'we are a tolerant government' |date=21 November 2017 |website=Firstpost |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173333/https://www.firstpost.com/entertainment/iffi-2017-during-welcome-speech-smriti-irani-says-we-are-a-tolerant-government-4220125.html |url-status=live }}
2. In FY 2017, during Mrs. Irani's term as I&B Minister, the revenue of State-run broadcaster Doordarshan rose to Rs 827.51 crore, surpassing its target of Rs 800 crore.{{Cite web |url=https://www.livemint.com/Companies/3C9fKqrCNh9zNTGXXqoj0L/Doordarshans-revenue-rises-to-Rs82751-crore-in-FY17.html |title=Doordarshan's revenue rises to Rs 827.51 crore in FY17 |last=Ahluwalia |first=Harveen |date=4 April 2017 |website=Livemint |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=7 August 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200807055939/https://www.livemint.com/Companies/3C9fKqrCNh9zNTGXXqoj0L/Doordarshans-revenue-rises-to-Rs82751-crore-in-FY17.html |url-status=live }}

In the second term of the Modi Government, Irani was appointed given the key portfolio Union Minister for Women and Child Development.{{Cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/smriti-irani-assumes-charge-as-wcd-minister-119060300691_1.html |title=Smriti Irani assumes charge as WCD minister |date=3 June 2019 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173336/https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/smriti-irani-assumes-charge-as-wcd-minister-119060300691_1.html |url-status=live }} Subsequently, in the cabinet re-shuffle of July 2021, Irani was again given the charge of the Ministry of Women and Child Development.{{Cite web |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/women-female-ministers-modi-central-bjp-nda-govt-1825236-2021-07-08 |title=Cabinet reshuffle Meet Modi government's women ministers |last=Saha |first=Poulomi |website=India Today |date=8 July 2021}}

One of her first legislative initiatives as the Minister for WCD was the Amendment to the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2019, which aims to make punishment more stringent and even include death penalty for offenders involved in sexual crimes against minors.{{Cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/smriti-irani-introduces-bill-to-amend-pocso-act-in-rajya-sabha/articleshow/70282144.cms |title=Smriti Irani introduces bill to amend POCSO Act in Rajya Sabha |date=18 July 2019 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=2 December 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202085009/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/smriti-irani-introduces-bill-to-amend-pocso-act-in-rajya-sabha/articleshow/70282144.cms |url-status=live }} She undertook the initiative to define "child pornography" and reiterated a "zero tolerance" stance against the crime.{{Cite news |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/govt-defines-child-pornography-brings-digital-or-computer-generated-content-under-it-wcd-ministry-119071101487_1.html |title=Govt defines child pornography, brings digital or computer generated content under it: WCD Ministry |agency=Press Trust of India |date=11 July 2019 |work=Business Standard India |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127174242/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/govt-defines-child-pornography-brings-digital-or-computer-generated-content-under-it-wcd-ministry-119071101487_1.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/government-approves-changes-in-pocso-act-includes-death-penalty-for-sexual-offences-against-children/articleshow/70159690.cms |title=Government approves changes in POCSO Act, includes death penalty for sexual offences against children |date=10 July 2019 |work=The Economic Times |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=11 July 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190711034531/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/government-approves-changes-in-pocso-act-includes-death-penalty-for-sexual-offences-against-children/articleshow/70159690.cms |url-status=live }}

Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh, As part of the Poshan Abhiyaan, Irani along with Bill Gates, through his foundation, announced the launch of India's first Poshan Atlas, Bhartiya Poshan Krishi Kosh(BPKK) in order to create a repository of diverse crops across 127 agro-climatic zones of the country.{{Cite web |url=https://swachhindia.ndtv.com/government-unveils-bharatiya-poshan-krishi-kosh-to-help-fight-malnutrition-heres-all-you-need-to-know-39871/ |title=Government Unveils Bharatiya Poshan Krishi Kosh To Help Fight Malnutrition, Here's All You Need To Know {{!}} News |date=18 November 2019 |website=NDTV |access-date=27 January 2020 |archive-date=27 January 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200127173336/https://swachhindia.ndtv.com/government-unveils-bharatiya-poshan-krishi-kosh-to-help-fight-malnutrition-heres-all-you-need-to-know-39871/ |url-status=live }}

In August 2023, Irani introduced ‘Naya Savera’ scheme (‘Free Coaching and Allied’ scheme) to assist students belonging to the six minority communities namely Sikh, Jain, Muslim, Christian, Buddhist and Parsi by way of special coaching for qualifying examinations for admission in technical/professional courses and competitive examination for recruitment.{{Cite news |title=1.19 lakh students benefited under Naya Savera Scheme |url=https://ddnews.gov.in/business/119-lakh-students-benefited-under-naya-savera-scheme |work=DD News |date=4 August 2023 |access-date=12 January 2024 |archive-date=7 December 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231207232303/https://ddnews.gov.in/business/119-lakh-students-benefited-under-naya-savera-scheme |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=Saurabh |date=5 August 2023 |title=Ministry implemented 'Naya Savera' or 'Free Coaching and Allied' scheme |url=https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/ministry-implemented-naya-savera-or-free-coaching-and-allied-scheme/ |work=Adda247 |access-date=12 January 2024 |archive-date=12 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240112072421/https://currentaffairs.adda247.com/ministry-implemented-naya-savera-or-free-coaching-and-allied-scheme/ |url-status=live }}

In January 2024, Smriti Irani became the only non-muslim on her historical visit to the holy site of Medina led by the Saudi-Arabian delegates, where she signed the Hajj agreement 2024, and brought home increased quota for Hajj trip for Muslims in India. {{Cite magazine |last=Sagar |first=Pradip P |date=10 January 2024 |title=When Smriti Irani led a rare non-Muslim delegation to Madinah |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/when-smriti-irani-led-a-rare-non-muslim-delegation-to-madinah-2487021-2024-01-10 |magazine=India Today |access-date=12 January 2024}}{{Cite news |last=Sharma +first=Mukul |date=10 January 2024 |title=Minority affairs minister Smriti Irani brings home increased Haj quota for Indian Muslims |url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-minister-smriti-irani-brings-home-increased-haj-quota-for-muslims-678583 |work=WION |access-date=12 January 2024}}

{{POV section|date=April 2020}}

Irani, in 2019 general elections, in Amethi constituency of Uttar Pradesh, won against Rahul Gandhi, President of the Indian National Congress, by a margin of 55,120 votes who previously seat held since 2004.{{cite news |title=Amethi Constituency Election Result: Smriti Irani defeats Rahul Gandhi by 55,120 votes {{!}} India News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/amethi-constituency-lok-sabha-election-result-2019-smriti-leads-rahul-trails/articleshow/69454917.cms |access-date=5 February 2021 |work=The Times of India |date=24 May 2019 |language=en |archive-date=31 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220131154055/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/amethi-constituency-lok-sabha-election-result-2019-smriti-leads-rahul-trails/articleshow/69454917.cms |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/lok-sabha-elections/lok-sabha-elections-2019-the-north-remembers-smriti-irani-after-dethroning-rahul-gandhi/story-NV1Nht3oOipyzRgZ2ZWpgJ.html |title=Lok Sabha elections 2019: 'The North Remembers', Smriti Irani after dethroning Rahul Gandhi |date=24 May 2019 |website=Hindustan Times |access-date=24 May 2019 |archive-date=24 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190524071430/https://www.hindustantimes.com/lok-sabha-elections/lok-sabha-elections-2019-the-north-remembers-smriti-irani-after-dethroning-rahul-gandhi/story-NV1Nht3oOipyzRgZ2ZWpgJ.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/rahul-gandhi-lacks-experience-hasnt-even-run-a-panchayat-sm-krishna-on-congress-landslide-defeat/424420 |title=Rahul Gandhi lacks experience, hasn't even run a panchayat: SM Krishna on Congress' landslide defeat {{!}} India News |website=Times Now |date=24 May 2019 |access-date=24 May 2019 |archive-date=24 May 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190524071431/https://www.timesnownews.com/india/article/rahul-gandhi-lacks-experience-hasnt-even-run-a-panchayat-sm-krishna-on-congress-landslide-defeat/424420 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://zeenews.india.com/lok-sabha-general-elections-2019/smriti-irani-bjps-giant-killer-who-defeated-rahul-gandhi-in-amethi-2205835.html |title=Smriti Irani, BJP's giant killer who defeated Rahul Gandhi in Amethi |date=24 May 2019 |website=Zee News |access-date=24 May 2019 |archive-date=16 September 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220916144858/https://zeenews.india.com/lok-sabha-general-elections-2019/smriti-irani-bjps-giant-killer-who-defeated-rahul-gandhi-in-amethi-2205835.html |url-status=live }} The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its leadership put in an all around effort over the past five years to ensure this win after her loss to Gandhi by 1,07,923 votes, a 12.32% margin in 2014 general elections. Irani made multiple visits to Amethi after her loss to launch central development schemes in the constituency, to underscore her message that she would provide better representation than the incumbent member. In the 2024 general elections however, Irani lost the Amethi seat to the Indian National Congress' candidate Kishori Lal Sharma by a margin of 167,196 votes.{{Cite news |title=Lok Sabha Elections results: Smriti Irani concedes defeat in Amethi by Congress' KL Sharma; BJP workers break down in tears |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/lok-sabha-elections-results-smriti-irani-concedes-defeat-in-amethi-by-congress-kl-sharma-bjp-workers-break-down-in-tears/videoshow/110717754.cms |work=The Economic Times |date=5 June 2024 |access-date=5 June 2024 |archive-date=5 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240605041651/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/lok-sabha-elections-results-smriti-irani-concedes-defeat-in-amethi-by-congress-kl-sharma-bjp-workers-break-down-in-tears/videoshow/110717754.cms |url-status=live }}

Irani was accused of providing contradictory affidavits about her educational qualifications during different elections. In her affidavit for the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, she reportedly stated her educational qualification as B.A. from Delhi University. However, while filing affidavits in her nomination papers for Rajya Sabha from Gujarat in 2011 and Lok Sabha from Uttar Pradesh in 2014, she said her highest educational qualification was, B.com, Part 1 from School of Open Learning at University of Delhi.{{Cite web |url=http://docs.myneta.info/affidavits/rajsab09aff/318/Smriti%20Irani.pdf |title=Smt. Smriti Irani (Scanned Rajya Sabha Affidavit, Gujarat 2011) |date=11 July 2011 |website=MyNeta |publisher=Association for Democratic Reforms |page=11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729164708/http://docs.myneta.info/affidavits/rajsab09aff/318/Smriti%20Irani.pdf |archive-date=29 July 2017 |url-status=live |access-date=31 July 2017 |quote=Highest educational qualification: B.Com Part I School of Correspondence - University of Delhi - 1994}}

She later claimed that she has done B.com, Part 1 from Delhi University (not completing the full course till Part 3) in the affidavit she filed for Rajya Sabha elections from Gujarat in 2017 which stated "Bachelor of Commerce, Part 1. Three year degree course not completed".{{Cite web |url=http://www.gujaratassembly.gov.in/rajyasabha/PDF%20Files/8.pdf |title=Mrs. Smriti Irani (Scanned Rajya Sabha Affidavit, Gujarat 2017) |date=27 July 2017 |website=Gujarat Vidhan Sabha (Gujarat Legislative Assembly) |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/6sMlKsxH1?url=http://www.gujaratassembly.gov.in/rajyasabha/PDF%20Files/8.pdf |archive-date=31 July 2017 |url-status=live |quote=Bachelor of Commerce, Part - 1 (Three year degree course not completed), School of Open Learning (Correspondence), University of Delhi, 1994}}{{Cite news |url=http://www.ptinews.com/news/8937644_Shah-s-assets-grew-three-times--Irani-still-not-graduate.html |title=Shah's assets grew three times, Irani still not graduate |date=30 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170731104032/http://www.ptinews.com/news/8937644_Shah-s-assets-grew-three-times--Irani-still-not-graduate.html |archive-date=31 July 2017 |url-status=live |agency=Press Trust of India}}

A freelance writer Ahmer Khan filed a complaint in April 2015 that Smriti Irani had filed an affidavit in April 2004 for the Lok Sabha elections, stating that she had completed her Bachelor of Arts in 1996 from School of Correspondence (Delhi University) but in another affidavit of 16 April 2014, filed by her for the Lok Sabha polls, it was said that she was a Bachelor of Commerce Part-I from the School of Open Learning (Delhi University). The plea said that the facts and circumstances reveal commission of offences by Smriti under section 125A (which deals with penalty of filing false affidavit and entails a jail term{{cite web |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/smriti-iranis-degree-row-court-asks-ec-du-to-bring-records/ |title=Smriti Irani's degree row: Court asks EC, DU to bring records |date=17 March 2016 |website=The Indian Express |access-date=25 March 2018 |archive-date=7 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107014026/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/smriti-iranis-degree-row-court-asks-ec-du-to-bring-records/ |url-status=live }}) of the Representation of People Act, 1951.{{cite web |url=http://newsworldindia.in/india/smriti-irani-fake-degree-case-court-reserves-order-verdict-on-june-24/46159/ |title=Smriti Irani Fake Degree Case: Court Reserves Order, Verdict On June 24 - News World India |website=newsworldindia.in |access-date=25 March 2018 |archive-date=15 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171115221701/http://www.newsworldindia.in/india/smriti-irani-fake-degree-case-court-reserves-order-verdict-on-june-24/46159/ |url-status=dead }}

The court had on 20 November 2016 allowed the complainant's plea seeking direction to the officials of EC and DU to bring the records of Ms. Irani's qualifications after he said he was unable to place them before the court. During the hearings of the complaint, the court was told by a poll panel official that the documents filed by Ms. Irani regarding her educational qualification while filing nominations were not traceable. Also, in pursuance of the court's earlier direction, Delhi University had also submitted that the documents pertaining to Ms. Irani's BA course in 1996, as purportedly mentioned by her in an affidavit filed during 2004 Lok Sabha elections, were yet to be found.{{cite web |url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/smriti-iranis-fake-degree-case-court-summons-documents-from-election-commission-1471093 |title=Smriti Irani's Degree Case: Court Summons Documents From Election Panel |website=ndtv.com |access-date=25 March 2018 |archive-date=7 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107112850/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/smriti-iranis-fake-degree-case-court-summons-documents-from-election-commission-1471093 |url-status=live }}

On 18 October 2016, a Delhi court said that Smriti Irani will not be summoned for the fake degree case because the petition filed against Irani questioning her college degrees was an attempt to harass her.{{cite news |last1=Biswas |first1=Tanima |last2=Panicker |first2=Raija Susan |title=Fake Degree Case Filed To Harass Smriti Irani, Says Delhi Court |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/fake-degree-case-filed-to-harass-smriti-irani-says-delhi-court-1475833 |access-date=31 May 2023 |work=NDTV |date=18 October 2016 |archive-date=19 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230419161117/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/fake-degree-case-filed-to-harass-smriti-irani-says-delhi-court-1475833 |url-status=live }} The court said that the complainant may not have filed it if she were not a central minister. Metropolitan Magistrate Harvinder Singh said that original evidence had already been lost due to the passage of years, secondary evidence wasn't enough for court. The Magistrate also said that the complainant made a "delay of 11 years" in filing the complaint against Irani.{{cite web |url=https://in.news.yahoo.com/relief-smriti-irani-delhi-court-132041138.html |title=Relief for Smriti Irani as Delhi court dismisses fake degree case |publisher=Yahoo! |access-date=25 March 2018 |archive-date=7 November 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107030253/https://in.news.yahoo.com/relief-smriti-irani-delhi-court-132041138.html |url-status=live }} This verdict of the lower court was challenged in the Delhi High Court and the court asked all the records of the case to be handed over to it in order to examine case records before deciding to summon Irani or anyone else.{{Cite news |last=Choudhury |first=Sunetra |date=23 May 2017 |title=Smriti Irani Fake Degree Row Back? High Court Asks For Records |url=https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/smriti-irani-fake-degree-row-back-delhi-high-court-asks-for-educational-records-1697218 |access-date=15 November 2022 |work=NDTV |archive-date=15 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221115225856/https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/smriti-irani-fake-degree-row-back-delhi-high-court-asks-for-educational-records-1697218 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |date=23 May 2017 |title='Fake degree' row back to haunt Smriti Irani as fresh petition filed |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/fake-degree-row-back-to-haunt-smriti-irani-as-fresh-petition-filed-4670072/ |access-date=15 November 2022 |work=The Indian Express |agency=PTI |archive-date=15 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221115225857/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/fake-degree-row-back-to-haunt-smriti-irani-as-fresh-petition-filed-4670072/ |url-status=live }}

In December 2021, while at the same time holding a portfolio of Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani posted an image on Instagram which read, "When I was a kid, they didn't take me to a psychologist... My mom was able to open my chakra, stabilize my karma and clean my aura with one single slap." She was widely criticised for trivialising the widely prevalent issue of child abuse in Indian households with her post and degrading the role of mental health experts.{{Cite news |title=Smriti Irani's post on 'mom's single slap cleaning aura' goes viral |url=https://www.timesnownews.com/the-buzz/article/smriti-iranis-post-on-moms-single-slap-cleaning-aura-goes-viral/842483 |access-date=12 June 2022 |work=Times Now |date=21 December 2021 |archive-date=12 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612105118/https://www.timesnownews.com/amp/the-buzz/article/smriti-iranis-post-on-moms-single-slap-cleaning-aura-goes-viral/842483 |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |title=Smriti Irani's 'Single Slap' post goes viral on Instagram, netizens condemn her slam on psychologists |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/viral/smriti-iranis-single-slap-post-goes-viral-on-instagram-netizens-condemn-her-slam-on-psychologists |access-date=12 June 2022 |work=Free Press Journal |date=21 December 2021 |archive-date=12 June 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220612105118/https://www.freepressjournal.in/viral/smriti-iranis-single-slap-post-goes-viral-on-instagram-netizens-condemn-her-slam-on-psychologists |url-status=live }}

Smriti Irani's debut novel is Lal Salaam, published by Westland publishers in 2021.{{Cite web|date=19 December 2021|title=Smriti Irani at launch of her novel: 'I stepped out to live my life and then history happened'|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/books-and-literature/smriti-irani-book-launch-lal-salaam-7679563/|access-date=11 February 2022|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-date=11 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220211165503/https://indianexpress.com/article/books-and-literature/smriti-irani-book-launch-lal-salaam-7679563/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|last=Irani|first=Smriti Zubin|date=29 November 2021|title='Lal Salaam': Smriti Irani's novel is based on the killing of 76 CRPF men by Maoists in Dantewada|url=https://scroll.in/article/1011600/lal-salaam-smriti-iranis-novel-is-based-on-the-killing-of-76-crpf-men-by-maoists-in-dantewada|access-date=11 February 2022|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US|archive-date=11 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220211165503/https://scroll.in/article/1011600/lal-salaam-smriti-iranis-novel-is-based-on-the-killing-of-76-crpf-men-by-maoists-in-dantewada|url-status=live}} It is inspired by the April 2010 Maoist attack in Dantewada and the role of the central police forces in insurgencies.{{Cite news|date=29 November 2021|title=Smriti Irani turns author with 'Lal Salaam', novel pays tribute to 76 CRPF personnel martyred in 2010 Dantewada attack|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/smriti-irani-makes-her-debut-as-an-author-with-novel-lal-salaam-a-tribute-to-76-crpf-personnel-martyred-in-2010-dantewada-attack/articleshow/87975165.cms|access-date=11 February 2022|archive-date=11 February 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220211165806/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/smriti-irani-makes-her-debut-as-an-author-with-novel-lal-salaam-a-tribute-to-76-crpf-personnel-martyred-in-2010-dantewada-attack/articleshow/87975165.cms|url-status=live}}

She is the founder of the Alliance for Global Good – Gender Equity and Equality, a World Economic Forum initiative aligned with BIMSTEC and G20,{{cite web |url=https://globalgoodalliance.in/Newsletters2024/April/ |title=Equality for Prosperity |website=globalgoodalliance.in |access-date=15 April 2025}} focused on addressing social and economic disparities through gender-focused programs.{{Cite news |author=NewsVoir |date=28 January 2025 |title=Smriti Irani Leads a Transformative Gender Equity Agenda at Davos 2025 |url=https://www.business-standard.com/content/press-releases-ani/smriti-irani-leads-a-transformative-gender-equity-agenda-at-davos-2025-125012800031_1.html |work=Business Standard |access-date=15 April 2025}} As a Strategic Advisor to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), she represents the interests of 80 million small traders in India.{{cite news |url=https://cait.in/2024/08/24/in-the-annual-general-meeting-of-cait-the-decision-to-empower-300000-women-entrepreneurs-by-providing-them-positions-from-the-national-to-the-taluka-level-was-unanimously-passed/ |title=In the annual general meeting of CAIT, the decision to empower 300,000 women entrepreneurs by providing them positions from the national to the taluka level was unanimously passed |website=cait.in |date=24 August 2024 |access-date=22 April 2025}} She also serves as an Advisory Board Member for the Women’s Collective Forum, dedicated to promoting gender equality and advancing women’s health, education, and entrepreneurship.{{Cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/india/smriti-irani-calls-for-greater-global-cooperation-to-empower-women/articleshow/117523514.cms |title=Smriti Irani calls for greater global cooperation to empower women |work=The Economic Times |agency=PTI |date=24 January 2025 |access-date=15 April 2025}} Additionally, she is the Vice-President of The Loomba Foundation, which supports widows and their children globally, regardless of race, gender, or religion.{{Cite news |url=https://www.aninews.in/news/world/asia/delhi-smriti-irani-addresses-launch-of-her-skill-her-future-initiative-to-empower-100000-widows20250111043622/ |title=Delhi: Smriti Irani addresses launch of 'Her Skill, Her Future' initiative to empower 100,000 widows |work=ANI News |date=11 January 2025 |access-date=15 April 2025}} She has also represented the Asia-Pacific Region at the 126th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly.{{Cite news |url=https://www.minorityaffairs.gov.in/showfile.php?lang=2&level=0&ls_id=13&lid=30 |title=Smriti Irani Bio |website=minorityaffairs.gov.in}}

{{main|List of awards and nominations received by Smriti Irani}}

{{reflist}}

{{Sister project links|wikt=no|commons=Category:Smriti Irani|b=no|n=no|q=Smriti Irani|s=no|v=no|species=no|display=Smriti Irani}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20090803080320/http://164.100.47.5/NewMembers/Website/Main.aspx Detailed Profile: Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani]
• {{Twitter|smritiirani}}

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