Pune

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.

This news report covers the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislative meeting in Mumbai, where Sunetra Pawar was unanimously elected as the CLP leader. Following the proposal by Dilip Walse Patil and support from top leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal, she is set to become Maharashtra's first woman Deputy Chief Minister. The reporter notes, 'Sunetra Pawar is set to take oath as the Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister' at 5 PM today. The transition follows her resignation as a Member of Parliament. While the Ajit Pawar faction solidifies its leadership, questions regarding a potential merger between the two NCP factions remain unanswered. The swearing-in ceremony at Lok Bhavan is expected to be a concise event attended by major political figures. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule are reportedly holding a separate meeting in Pune. The broadcast highlights Sunetra Pawar's new role in leading the faction forward, marking a significant shift in the state's political landscape.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the major political transition in Maharashtra following the demise of Ajit Pawar. Sunetra Pawar has been unanimously chosen as the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Congress Legislative Party (CLP) leader during a meeting in Mumbai. The proposal for her leadership was moved by Chhagan Bhujbal and received full support from the faction. Sunetra Pawar is set to become the first woman Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, with her swearing-in ceremony scheduled for 5 PM today. She will take over portfolios previously held by her husband, including State Excise and Sports, while the Finance portfolio remains with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for the interim period. The broadcast highlights that 'Sunetra Pawar will now lead the way forward when it comes to the Ajit Pawar faction of the NCP' as the party seeks a smooth transition and continuity. Meanwhile, merger talks and meetings led by Sharad Pawar in Pune continue to shape the future of the NCP.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the dramatic developments within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) following the reported demise of Ajit Pawar. Reporter Omkar Bhave provides an exclusive 'inside scoop' regarding a January 17 meeting held at Sharad Pawar’s residence, Govind Bagh, in Baramati. During this meeting, it was revealed that 'Ajit Pawar was completely keen for the merger' and had personally initiated the plan to unify the two NCP factions. The merger was reportedly finalised for February 12, following the Pune Zila Parishad elections. However, the current political landscape has shifted significantly. Sharad Pawar clarified that he was unaware of Sunetra Pawar’s potential elevation to Deputy Chief Minister, noting that decisions are being made by Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare. A high-level meeting is currently underway in Baramati involving Sharad Pawar, Supriya Sule, and Yugendra Pawar to discuss the future of the party and Maharashtra politics amidst these contradictory developments.

On this India Today special report, correspondent Omkar Bhoble discusses the volatile political landscape in Maharashtra following the sudden developments within the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). The report highlights a significant communication gap between the two factions, as Sharad Pawar claimed he was unaware of Sunetra Pawar being sworn in as the Deputy Chief Minister. Omkar Bhoble notes that 'Sharad Pawar has clarified meeting was held on 17th of January and Ajit Pawar had given the date that let's come together on 12th of February' for a potential merger. However, the absence of Ajit Pawar has thrown these plans into uncertainty. The discussion explores the ideological differences that led to the initial split and the technical challenges of reuniting the factions. With local elections in Pune approaching, the future of the Mahayuti alliance and the leadership of the NCP remains unclear as the Pawar family navigates these unforeseen circumstances.

Sunetra Pawar is set to take oath as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday at 5 pm, according to sources. She has accepted the proposal for her elevation and will continue to handle the Excise and Sports ministries.

In a significant political development in Maharashtra, Sunetra Pawar has been appointed as the new Deputy Chief Minister. This decision follows the recent passing of her husband, Ajit Pawar, with the appointment coming just a day after his last rites. According to the bulletin, 'Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra' and will retain the exercise and sports portfolios. In a major administrative shift, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will take over the crucial finance ministry ahead of the upcoming budget session. The move is seen as a strategic step by the party leadership to provide direction before the Pune Zilla Parishad elections scheduled for 7th February. The transition occurred after internal discussions within the Pawar family and senior party leaders. While Sunetra Pawar steps into the deputy role, the shift of the finance portfolio to the Chief Minister marks a notable change in the state's power dynamics during this interim period.

On this Special Report, the focus is on the sudden political developments in Maharashtra following the demise of Ajit Pawar. An unidentified speaker reports that Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the new Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. According to the transcript, she will retain the excise and sports ministries previously held by her husband. The speaker notes, 'Sunetra Pawar has accepted the proposal to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra' to provide leadership ahead of the Pune Zilla Parishad elections scheduled for 7th February. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has taken charge of the crucial finance ministry ahead of the upcoming budget session. The programme features insights from analysts Rajat Sethi and Ashutosh, who discuss the implications of this transition for the NCP and the state's governance. The discussion highlights the technical nature of the finance portfolio and the challenges of maintaining party unity during this period of transition.

On this India Today special report, senior NCP (SP) leader and former minister Eknath Khadse reveals that the merger between the Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar factions of the Nationalist Congress Party had been finalised prior to the latter's sudden demise. Khadse stated, 'The merger of both NCP factions has been finalised,' noting that the move was intended to follow local body elections. The transcript details how both factions had already begun contesting local polls as an alliance against the BJP using the 'clock' symbol. Journalist Sahil Joshi adds that the late Ajit Pawar had hinted at this reunification during a January 2026 interview, suggesting the merger would involve supporting the NDA government at both State and Central levels. The report further notes that Sharad Pawar is set to retire from the Rajya Sabha in April 2026, which was expected to facilitate a smoother transition for the unified party under the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.

On this India Today special report, anchor Preeti Choudhry discusses the sudden and tragic passing of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar at the age of 66. Describing the event as a 'body blow politically' for the Pawar family and Maharashtra, Choudhry reflects on the legacy of the leader often called 'Rok Thok Dada' for his blunt and straight-talking nature. The programme highlights the deep bond within the Pawar clan, noting that despite political splits, the family remained united in times of grief and celebration. The discussion, featuring analysts Manish Dhabade and Jayant Menkar, explores Ajit Pawar's administrative grip and his role as the primary inheritor of Sharad Pawar's political legacy. The report captures the emotional scenes from Baramati, where the eight-term MLA is being laid to rest, marking a significant crossroad for the NCP and the future of the Pawar brand in Indian politics.

This special report covers the final rites of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in Baramati following a fatal aircraft crash. The broadcast highlights the somber atmosphere as NCP patriarch Sharad Pawar and Lok Sabha MP Supriya Sule lead the family in mourning. Sule was seen managing the arrangements and sharing moments of grief with the public at Vidya Pratishthan, an educational hub developed by the family, where an eight-foot structure was erected for the last rites. The reporter notes the 'twist of irony' that Pawar breathed his last in the constituency he represented eight times. The program also pays tribute to the four other individuals who lost their lives in the crash, including Pawar’s PSO, OSD, two pilots, and a flight attendant. As the party stands at a crossroads, the report reflects on the legacy of the 66-year-old leader and the deep impact of his sudden demise on the people of Baramati and the political landscape of Maharashtra.

On this Special Report, correspondent Abhijit Karamde provides live updates from Baramati following the tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash. The mortal remains of the NCP leader were kept at his native village, Kathewadi, for family respects before being moved for public viewing. Karamde notes the 'bitter irony' of the leader's passing, stating, 'they identified his body by the watch which he was wearing in his hand and incidentally, coincidentally, watch is a symbol of NCP'. The report details the massive preparations at the Vidya Pratishthan ground for the funeral, which is expected to be attended by Union Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis. The programme reflects on Pawar's 35-year political legacy, his eight consecutive electoral wins in Baramati since 1995, and the deep grief shared by his supporters across Western Maharashtra as the DGCA forensic team continues its investigation at the crash site.

On this Special Report, India Today’s Moushumi Singh reports from Baramati, Maharashtra, where the mortal remains of veteran leader Ajit Pawar have reached his Katewadi residence. The eight-time MLA, affectionately known as 'Dada', is being mourned by a sea of supporters and political dignitaries. Singh notes the disciplined atmosphere as the public adheres to the family's request for order, stating, 'Everybody wants to just bid farewell to their hero of Baramati for the last time.' The broadcast highlights Pawar’s deep-rooted connection to the region, from his early days in sugar cooperatives to his reputation as a punctual and forthright mass leader. His family, including Sunetra Pawar and Supriya Sule, have coordinated the final rites scheduled for 11 am. The programme reflects on his political legacy and the transformation of Baramati under the Pawar family’s leadership.

On this Special Report, we cover the passing of veteran Maharashtra leader Ajit Pawar. His mortal remains are being taken to his native village, Katewadi, for the final rites, a place that shaped his journey from a 'man of the soil' to a powerhouse in state politics. Shiv Sena MLA Deepak Kesarkar, paying tribute, stated, 'He was our leader and we used to love him,' highlighting Pawar's absolute control over administration and his reputation for being punctual and truthful. The programme reflects on his rise from a sugar mill director in Baramati to a leader of the masses who remained connected to his grassroots despite decades in power. His contributions to irrigation, agriculture, and urban planning in Maharashtra are noted as his lasting legacy. The state remembers him not just as a member of the Pawar family, but as an architect of development who worked his way up to form a massive independent following across the Nationalist Congress Party cadre.

This news bulletin provides updates on the tragic aircraft crash in Baramati, Pune district, which resulted in the death of five individuals, including a prominent Maharashtra leader. The Maharashtra Police have officially registered an Accidental Death Report (ADR) at the Baramati Taluka Police Station. According to the report, the investigation is set to be handed over to the Maharashtra Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The CID will conduct its probe in coordination with the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), which operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation and has already commenced its technical inquiry. The speaker notes, 'The ADR will be handed over to the Maharashtra Criminal Investigation Department, which will be conducting a probe based on the findings of the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau'. Preparations for the final rites are underway at Katewadi village, with mortal remains kept at the Punyaslok Ahilya Devi Government Hospital. Dignitaries from across the nation are expected to arrive in Baramati to pay their final respects amidst an emotional outpouring from supporters.

In this special broadcast, India Today pays tribute to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar following his tragic demise in an air crash in Baramati. The discussion features insights from Sahil Joshi, Managing Editor and Mumbai Bureau Chief, who reflects on Pawar's three-decade-long political journey. The speakers describe Pawar as a 'complex character' and a 'very efficient administrator' who was known for his directness and deep connection with the people of Baramati. The bulletin highlights his transition from being in the shadow of Sharad Pawar to seeking his own political identity, including his recent hints at a potential NCP merger. 'He did not pretend to be some political saint or sadhu,' noted the speaker, emphasizing Pawar's candid ambition to become Chief Minister. The programme explores the vacuum left in the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the uncertain future of Maharashtra's political landscape following this sudden loss, while also recalling Pawar's personal interests in cricket and old Hindi film music.

On this special broadcast, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan reflects on the sudden demise of Ajit Pawar, describing it as a shock to the nation. Chavan recounts their long political journey, noting that both were elected to the Lok Sabha in 1991. He highlights their professional relationship during his tenure as Chief Minister from 2010 to 2014, stating, 'We took many, many momentous decisions and many of them, I confess, I would not have been able to take without his active support.' Chavan addresses past political frictions, including the irrigation and cooperative bank matters, clarifying that his actions were never personal despite Pawar's perceptions at the time. Looking ahead, Chavan speculates on the leadership of the NCP Ajit Pawar faction and the potential merger of the two NCP groups, suggesting such a move is 'inevitable' given the current political landscape. The discussion also touches upon the immediate administrative challenge of presenting the state budget following the Finance Minister's passing.

On this news bulletin, Rajdeep Sardesai leads a critical discussion on air safety following a tragic Learjet 45 crash at Baramati airfield involving a VVIP's family. Sardesai raises urgent questions, asking, 'Is an uncontrolled small airfield like Baramati an accident waiting to happen?' The panel, featuring Captain Sam Thomas, Sanjay Lazar, and Captain Amit Singh, examines the absence of a mayday call, the impact of low visibility, and the potential for 'cognitive lockup' under VVIP pressure. The discussion scrutinises the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its regulatory audits and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) for delayed reports. Experts highlight the lack of navigational aids at small airfields and the need for international standards in crash investigations. The programme underscores the systemic challenges facing India's rapidly growing aviation sector and the necessity for structural reforms within the regulator to ensure passenger safety.

On this India Today special, Consulting Editor Rajdeep Sardesai and Mumbai Bureau Chief Sahil Joshi pay tribute to Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar following his tragic death in an air crash in Baramati. Sardesai reflects on Pawar’s complex persona, stating, 'He did not pretend to be some political saint or sadhu,' highlighting his bluntness and administrative efficiency. The discussion covers Pawar’s long career, from his early days under Sharad Pawar’s shadow to his eventual move to lead his own faction of the NCP. Sahil Joshi describes him as a dedicated administrator who often felt like a political 'scapegoat' despite his significant influence in Maharashtra politics. The bulletin explores his reputation as the 'big boss of Baramati,' his candid admission of wanting the Chief Minister’s post, and his ability to connect with grassroots workers. The editors also recall personal anecdotes, including his early morning meetings and his surprising interests in cricket and old Hindi film music, painting a picture of a formidable yet polarizing political figure.

This special report examines the tragic plane crash in Baramati that claimed the life of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and four others. Newly accessed CCTV footage from a local showroom captures the exact moment the aircraft lost control, flipped mid-air, and crashed into the ground. The speaker notes that the plane appeared 'disbalanced' and 'wobbly' before it 'completely turned over' in the sky. According to the transcript, there was no response from the pilots when the Air Traffic Control (ATC) suggested landing on a new strip. The footage shows a massive ball of fire erupting upon impact, resulting in the deaths of the Deputy Chief Minister, two pilots, an OSD, a PSO, and a flight attendant. The visuals suggest the pilots had no control over the aircraft during its final moments as it went 'belly up' before the fatal impact.