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Ajit Pawar Political Career: An era in Maharashtra politics came to an end today. The Deputy Chief Minister of the state and President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Ajit Pawar, passed away on the morning of January 28, 2026 in a plane crash in Baramati, Pune. He was 66 years old. Known for his strong grip on administration and organization, Ajit Pawar played a decisive role in the power and development of Maharashtra.
Ajit Pawar's Plane Crash and Tragic End
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This morning, at around 8:45 AM, Ajit Pawar's chartered plane (Learjet 45) crashed during landing at Baramati Airport. All 5 people on board, including his security personnel and the pilot, lost their lives in the accident. He was on his way to address an election rally in Baramati. Following the incident, the Maharashtra government has declared three days of state mourning.
Ajit Pawar’s Unmatched Record as 6-Time Deputy CM
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Ajit Pawar held a unique record in Maharashtra politics. He served as Deputy Chief Minister six times in the last 13 years.
He proved his administrative prowess while working in governments of different ideologies:- 2010 - 2012: Prithviraj Chavan government (first term)
- 2012 - 2014: Prithviraj Chavan government (second term)
- 2019 (November): With Devendra Fadnavis (a government that lasted only 80 hours)
- 2019 - 2022: Maha Vikas Aghadi government (with Uddhav Thackeray)
- 2023 - 2024: Joined the Eknath Shinde government
- 2024 - 2026: Served as the 8th Deputy Chief Minister in the government led by Devendra Fadnavis.
Ajit Pawar's Early Life and Family Background
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Born on July 22, 1959, in Ahmednagar, Ajit Anantrao Pawar was the son of Anantrao Pawar, the elder brother of veteran leader Sharad Pawar. He completed his early education from Deoli Pravara. He was immensely popular among his supporters as 'Dada'. His straightforwardness and quick decision-making style set him apart from other leaders.
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Ajit Pawar's Political Career: A Four-Decade Political Journey
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Ajit Pawar started his political career in 1982 and made Baramati his stronghold.
- 1991: He reached the Lok Sabha for the first time, but vacated the seat for his uncle Sharad Pawar.
- Continuous Victories: He won continuously from the Baramati assembly constituency from 1995 to 2024.
- Ministries: He held important portfolios such as Agriculture, Horticulture, Power, and Water Resources.
Ajit Pawar's Controversies
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His political life was not without controversies. The allegations of the 2013 'irrigation scam' and some of his controversial statements drew sharp criticism. However, he publicly apologized for his mistakes each time and returned to politics.
The End of a Decisive Leadership
Ajit Pawar was considered a skilled organizer. He often started work as early as 6 AM, which reflected his discipline. His death today has created a void not only in the Pawar family but also in the entire political landscape of Maharashtra, a void that will be impossible to fill.
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