First lady Zilla Parishad Chief passes away

India's first lady Zilla Parishad Chief Tarabai Vartak passed away in Virar, a suburb in Mumbai's Thane district, sources said.

Vartak (82) died on Thursday and was cremated at the Virar Civic Cremetorium the next day, they said.

Vartak hailed from the family of politicians in the western belt of Thane district, who ruled the district for years.

She was responsible for setting up several educational institutions in Vasai, Virar region in the western belt of the district, they said adding that she was elected as the President of Thane Zilla Parishad in 1972.

Later, she was also elected to the State Legislative Assembly in 1980 and as also a Minister of State for some time.

Several political, social, and other leaders were also present during the funeral.