The Chief Minister also expressed confidence in Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, stating that she would carry forward the legacy and responsibilities with the same commitment shown by her husband
Pic/PTI
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday announced that the Maharashtra Budget 2026 session will commence today, with him set to present the Budget. He noted that the groundwork for the financial exercise had already been completed by late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.
Ajit Pawar laid groundwork before demise, says CM
Addressing reporters in Mumbai, Fadnavis said that Ajit Pawar had meticulously prepared for the Maharashtra Budget 2026 before his untimely demise. He added that while presenting the Budget himself would be a responsibility, the foundation laid by Pawar would guide the process. The Chief Minister also expressed confidence in Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar, stating that she would carry forward the legacy and responsibilities with the same commitment shown by her husband.
“The Assembly session is beginning tomorrow. I will present the Budget. Ajit Pawar had made all the necessary preparations. This will be a new experience for Sunetra Pawar, but I am confident she will perform her role just as Ajit Dada did,” Fadnavis said.
Ajit Pawar’s legacy in state finances highlighted
Ajit Pawar, a seasoned leader in state finances, had presented the Maharashtra Budget 11 times and was in the process of preparing his 12th Budget at the time of his passing. His experience and administrative acumen had long been considered instrumental in shaping the state’s fiscal policies.
DGCA, CBI to probe fatal Baramati plane crash
Speaking about the tragic plane crash that claimed Pawar’s life, Fadnavis said that investigations are currently underway. He informed that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is probing the incident and that a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry will also be initiated to address public concerns and ensure transparency.
“We are all mourning the loss. The DGCA is investigating the incident, and we will also conduct a CBI inquiry. There are valid doubts in people’s minds that must be addressed. Many politicians, including myself, have flown using VSR company aircraft. It is important that all questions are answered,” he said.
The fatal crash occurred on January 28, 2026, when a Learjet 45XR operated by VSR Ventures went down while attempting to land in dense fog at Baramati Airport. All five individuals on board, including Ajit Pawar, lost their lives in the दुर्घटना.
Sunetra Pawar takes charge; govt launches new initiatives
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Sunetra Pawar was sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister on January 31, 2026, marking a significant political development. Reflecting on her husband’s legacy, she acknowledged his contributions and expressed readiness to take forward his work.
“The Maharashtra Budget 2026 begins tomorrow. Ajit Pawar presented the Budget 11 times and was preparing for his 12th. His sudden demise is a great loss, but we will continue his work,” she said.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Fadnavis also inaugurated the ‘Divyang Sahayak Portal’ of the state’s Divyang Welfare Department at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai. The event was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, along with Minister Atul Save and other senior officials.
Additionally, a report reviewing the work of the Krishna and Godavari Basin Development Corporations under the Water Resources Department for the year 2025 was released in the presence of the Chief Minister, highlighting ongoing efforts in water resource management across the state.
(With inputs from ANI)
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