Maharashtra

On this news bulletin, host Maria Shakil discusses the upcoming Union Budget as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to present her ninth consecutive budget, creating history in Indian governance. Reporting from Vijay Chowk, Ketan Bhutani notes that 'something on deregulation could probably be announced' alongside a significant push for MSMEs and a potential 8-10% increase in infrastructure allocation to nearly ₹12.5 lakh crore. The panel, including Shankar Aiyar and Rajiv Mantri, evaluates the 'reform, perform, and transform' mantra, highlighting the critical role of states in asset monetisation and labour-intensive manufacturing. The discussion underscores the performance of states like Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu in attracting investments and driving industrial growth. The programme explores the transition from government-led CapEx to the need for private investment and state-level deregulation to improve the ease of living and economic liquidity.

This Special Report hosted by Rajdeep Sardesai examines the significant political shift in Maharashtra following the death of Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. His widow, Sunetra Pawar, has been sworn in as the state’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move occurring three days after the tragedy. While the NCP leadership attributes this appointment to public sentiment, family patriarch Sharad Pawar and various critics have raised questions regarding transparency and the timing of the elevation. The programme features analysis from Sahil Joshi and Rohit Sandhavarkar on whether Sunetra Pawar can maintain independent control or if she will be influenced by senior leaders like Praful Patel. Concurrently, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assumed the finance and planning portfolios, consolidating BJP influence within the Mahayuti coalition. The discussion explores the historical context of political legacies, the internal dynamics of the Pawar family, and the administrative challenges facing the new Deputy Chief Minister in Maharashtra’s evolving political landscape.

On this Special Report, editor Sahil Joshi provides an exclusive chronology of the political shift in Maharashtra following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. Joshi notes that the decision to elevate Sunetra Pawar to Deputy Chief Minister was unique because 'This is the first time the decision happened outside the family' circle, involving top NCP leaders like Praful Patel and Chagan Bhujbal before being conveyed to the Pawar family. The discussion explores whether Sunetra Pawar, a political newcomer, can successfully navigate the administrative challenges of the role and maintain the NCP's influence alongside a powerful Chief Minister like Devendra Fadnavis. The programme also examines the potential for a merger between the two NCP factions and the strategic role of the BJP in this transition. Analysts weigh in on the historical precedents of spouses taking over political legacies and the specific hurdles Sunetra Pawar faces in holding the party together amidst an existential crisis.

On this India Today special report, Anish Gawande of the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) joins Rajdeep Sardesai to discuss the sudden political developments in Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar. Gawande addresses the appointment of Sunetra Pawar as the new Deputy Chief Minister, stating, 'I think that Sunetra Wahini is incredibly capable and competent of being Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.' He emphasizes that despite the political divide, the family remains united in grief and dismisses claims of being 'outsmarted' by the BJP or the Ajit Pawar faction. Gawande explains that the decision was internal to the NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) and reflects the public sentiment in Baramati. The discussion also touches upon the tradition of kin succeeding leaders in Maharashtra politics and the current status of potential merger talks between the two NCP factions in the wake of the tragedy.

In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker addresses significant claims involving the Pawar family and political shifts in Maharashtra. The speaker mentions being 'very happy to be here today' while the introductory narration discusses a purported merger that was reportedly 'on the anvil in the month of February'. The transcript highlights a claim that the 85-year-old patriarch was unaware of Sunetra Pawar being sworn in as Deputy Chief Minister. Furthermore, the dialogue references a 'tragic death of Ajit Pawar' as a turning point for these political developments. The programme focuses on these assertions regarding internal family dynamics and the timing of political alliances. The unidentified speaker repeats their enthusiasm for the occasion while the report outlines the alleged lack of communication within the political dynasty regarding high-level appointments and the impact of sudden events on planned mergers.

On this news bulletin, an Unidentified speaker, serving as the National General Secretary of the NCP, addresses the controversial appointment of Sunetra Pawar as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. The speaker states, 'It is the right time to take the right decision because today or tomorrow it was going to be happen,' justifying the move as a response to public sentiment and worker demands. During the interview, the spokesperson categorically denies allegations of 'parivarwaad' (dynasty politics) and rejects claims that the decision was orchestrated by the BJP to prevent a merger with Sharad Pawar’s faction. The discussion highlights the internal dynamics of the Mahayuti alliance, with the spokesperson asserting that the party leadership, including Praful Patel and Chhagan Bhujbal, acted independently to fulfill the mandate given by the public under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a historic move for Maharashtra politics, Sunetra Pawar has taken oath as the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The elevation follows the tragic demise of NCP leader Ajit Pawar in a recent plane crash. During the transition, party leaders and close aides rallied behind her, with the speaker noting, 'Sunetra Pawar, widow of the late Ajit Pawar, has taken oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, making history as the first woman to hold the post.' The report highlights her background as the daughter of Padam Singh Patil and her previous role as a Rajya Sabha MP. Despite her 2024 electoral loss in Baramati to Supriya Sule, she now steps into a central leadership role within the Mahayuti Coalition. The programme examines whether she can maintain control over the party and the Pawar family legacy during this period of intense political churn and emotional transition for the state of Maharashtra.

This special report examines the evolving political landscape in Maharashtra following a high-profile meeting at Sharad Pawar's Baramati residence on 17th January. The report highlights that while the Sharad Pawar faction views a potential NCP reunion as 'Ajit Dada's last wish', the rival faction has officially denied any such merger talks. The transcript reveals that a tentative date of 12th February had been set for the merger before the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar. Furthermore, the Pawar patriarch expressed surprise regarding the elevation of Sunetra Pawar to the post of Deputy Chief Minister, stating he was unaware of the development. The programme features insights into the discussions involving senior leaders like Supriya Sule and explores whether the two factions will reconcile or continue to drift apart. As the political drama unfolds, the future of the Nationalist Congress Party remains uncertain amidst conflicting claims from both sides of the Pawar family.

On this Special Report, the focus is on Sunetra Pawar’s first reaction following her appointment as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. Speaking after her elevation, she stated, 'I will continue to work tirelessly and honestly to realize the just, quality, base, and developed Maharashtra of his dreams.' The transition comes after the tragic and untimely demise of Ajit Pawar in an accident. Sunetra Pawar emphasized that the mantra provided by 'Ajit Dada' regarding the welfare of farmers, labourers, women, and youth remains her guiding principle. She acknowledged the immense responsibility of managing the entire state beyond the family bastion of Baramati. Highlighting the emotional weight of the moment, she noted that the support from the people of Maharashtra serves as her primary strength during these difficult times. The programme examines the challenges ahead for the new Deputy Chief Minister as she steps into this significant leadership role to fulfill the unfinished work of her predecessor.

This news bulletin reports on the latest developments in the Maharashtra cabinet portfolio distribution. Following the recent oath-taking ceremony, Sunetra Pawar has been assigned the state excise duty, sports, youth welfare, and minorities development portfolios. A significant shift has occurred in the finance and planning departments, which were previously held by Ajit Pawar; these have now been allocated to the Chief Minister. The reporter notes, 'All eyes were on the finance portfolio but at least for the interim being I understand that this is a portfolio that has not been given to the NCP here.' The discussion highlights the importance of the finance department for the NCP faction and the potential implications for the alliance. While some suggest the move is temporary due to the upcoming budget presentation, uncertainty remains regarding whether the portfolio will be returned to the NCP faction in the future.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the intensifying political drama within the Pawar family following Sunetra Pawar's oath-taking ceremony as the Deputy Chief Minister. The Unidentified speaker reports that Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar, and Rohit Pawar were notably absent and uninvited to the ceremony. When questioned about the development, Supriya Sule repeatedly responded with 'Ram Krishna Hari', choosing to remain silent on the family's political shift. The Unidentified speaker noted, 'She just said Ram Krishna Hari That's how she concluded and she avoided to speak over it.' The report highlights a meeting between Sule and Ajit Pawar's mother, Asha Tai, in Kathewadi shortly before the ceremony. Despite the family interactions following the reported passing of Ajit Pawar, the political divide remains prominent. The programme explores the uncertainty surrounding the leadership of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the ongoing disagreement expressed by Sharad Pawar regarding these fast-moving political developments.

In this special report, the focus is on the sudden political transition in Maharashtra following the tragic demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the state's first woman Deputy Chief Minister, a move congratulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister stated, 'I'm confident she will work tirelessly for the welfare of the people of the state and fulfill the vision of late Ajit Dada Pawar.' The bulletin explores the internal dynamics of the NCP Ajit Pawar faction and the potential for a merger with the Sharad Pawar group. While Sunetra Pawar takes over portfolios like Excise and Minority Affairs, the crucial Finance portfolio remains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis ahead of the state budget. The programme further analyzes the impact of this leadership change on upcoming local body polls and the strategic power balance within the Mahayuti alliance involving the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena.

On this Special Report, the focus is on Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s endorsement of the new political leadership in Maharashtra. Following the recent administrative changes in the state, the Prime Minister has officially extended his support to the newly appointed Deputy Chief Minister. Narendra Modi stated, 'Best wishes to Sunetra Pawar ji as she begins her tenure as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, the first woman to hold this position, this responsibility.' The Prime Minister further expressed his confidence in her leadership, noting that she would work tirelessly for the welfare of the citizens of Maharashtra. He emphasized that her tenure would be dedicated to fulfilling the vision of the late Ajit Dada Pawar. This development marks a significant milestone in the state's political history, as Sunetra Pawar becomes the first woman to occupy the post of Deputy Chief Minister. The programme highlights the Prime Minister's message and the expectations set for the new administration in Maharashtra.

This report covers the political developments in Maharashtra following the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar in a tragic airplane crash. Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, filling the vacancy left by her late husband. During the proceedings, NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule reportedly refused to answer questions from the press regarding the oath ceremony. NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar, when questioned about the appointment, stated, 'I do not know this is a decision that has been taken by the party internally,' suggesting a lack of consensus within the family and the broader political factions. The transition occurs amidst speculation regarding a potential merger between the two NCP factions, a move previously associated with Ajit Pawar's wishes. Sunetra Pawar now joins the state cabinet alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, while senior members of the Pawar family remained absent from the official ceremony.

In a significant political development, Sunetra Pawar has been sworn in as the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The appointment follows the tragic demise of her husband, Ajit Pawar, in a road accident on 28th January. During the solemn ceremony at Lok Bhawan, supporters were heard chanting 'Ajit Dada Amar Rahe' as the new Deputy CM signed the official documents. The broadcast highlights the immense responsibility now resting on Sunetra Pawar to keep the NCP flock together and manage key portfolios, including the upcoming budget session. While speculation regarding a merger with the Sharad Pawar-led faction continues to swirl, party insiders suggest the immediate priority remains government stability. The program notes that Sunetra Pawar will likely vacate her Rajya Sabha seat to focus on her new role in the state cabinet. Senior leaders and family members, including her sons Parth and Jay, were present as the party unanimously backed her leadership to ensure the continuity of Ajit Pawar's political legacy.

On this Special Report, Sneha Koshy discusses the escalating tensions within the Pawar family following Sunetra Pawar's appointment as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. The transcript highlights a significant rift, with Sharad Pawar stating, 'I wasn't even consulted, this is a decision that the party has taken internally about Sunetra Pawar taking over.' This development follows the sudden vacancy in the role and has sparked intense speculation regarding a potential merger between the rival NCP factions. Senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal addressed the timing of the move, remarking that 'there was no hurry' and that the decision was a matter of opinion. The programme examines the existential crisis facing both factions and the internal dynamics of the Nationalist Congress Party as they navigate this leadership transition. Sneha Koshy and colleagues explore whether the two sides can achieve longevity through a possible reunion amidst the current political vacuum.

Sunetra Pawar, wife of late NCP (AP) chief Ajit Pawar, was sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra at a ceremony in Mumbai’s Lok Bhavan on Saturday. Governor Acharya Devvrat administered the oath in the presence of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.

This Special Report covers a recent oath-taking ceremony involving the administration of Maharashtra. During the proceedings, an unidentified speaker pledged to 'maintain the integrity and unity of India' and expressed deep respect and devotion to the Indian Constitution. The speaker emphasized a commitment to performing duties with dedication, an open mind, and impartiality toward all citizens in accordance with the law. The transcript details the formal process of the 'shapath vidhi samaram,' where the individual vowed to fulfill responsibilities without bias or prejudice. The event highlights the procedural traditions of the state's executive branch, focusing on the solemnity of the constitutional oath and the speaker's expressed gratitude toward the leadership of Maharashtra while promising to uphold the legal framework of the nation.

Emotional scenes were witnessed at the Lok Bhavan as Nationalist Congress Party leaders raised slogans of “Ajit dada amar rahe” after Sunetra Pawar, leader of the NCP legislative party and wife of late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, took oath as Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister. Party leaders and workers chanted in memory of Ajit Pawar, recalling his political legacy, as Sunetra Pawar assumed office amid a charged atmosphere marked by grief, loyalty and political continuity within the party.

In this news bulletin, an unidentified speaker takes a formal oath of office, claiming the position of the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. During the declaration, the speaker expresses deep respect and devotion to the Indian Constitution, pledging to maintain the integrity and unity of the nation. The speaker states, 'As the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, I will do my work with dedication and with a clear mind.' The transcript captures the speaker promising to deliver serious and impartial justice to all citizens in accordance with the law and the Constitution. The address concludes with a solemn declaration regarding the seriousness of the Chief Minister's thoughts and responsibilities, followed by a brief expression of gratitude in Hindi. The programme highlights this significant political moment and the speaker's commitment to constitutional values and administrative dedication in the state of Maharashtra.