The rise, rule, and political legacy of Maharashtra’s ‘Dada’ Ajit Pawar: From Baramati stronghold to state leadership

Ajit Pawar, popularly called “Dada” in Maharashtra politics, died in a plane crash in Baramati, Pune district during an emergency landing. His sudden death shocked the state, marking the end of a decades-long career that shaped Maharashtra’s cooperative and political landscape.

Ajit Pawar began his political path in 1982 with a cooperative sugar factory board election. By 1991, he was elected chairman of the Pune District Central Cooperative Bank, laying the foundation for his influence in rural Maharashtra.

Pawar first won the Baramati Assembly seat in 1991 and represented it for seven consecutive terms. His grip on this constituency cemented his authority in Western Maharashtra and the state’s political arena.

Rising under the shadow of uncle Sharad Pawar, Ajit Pawar became a key NCP leader. In 2023, he split the party, aligning with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance. The Election Commission recognized his faction as the official NCP in 2024.

Ajit Pawar served six non-consecutive terms as Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, holding portfolios like water resources, power, and rural development across governments led by Prithviraj Chavan, Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray, and Eknath Shinde.

Pawar’s long tenure at the Pune District Central Cooperative Bank gave him control over sugar cooperatives and milk unions, making him a decisive figure in Western Maharashtra politics and economic development.

In November 2019, Pawar took oath as Deputy CM with Fadnavis for 80 hours before returning to Sharad Pawar’s fold. Later in July 2023, he engineered a vertical split in the NCP, challenging his uncle’s 25-year leadership.

Known for his pro-action style, Pawar earned respect from bureaucrats and politicians alike. He navigated multiple administrations, demonstrating adaptability while maintaining a strong hold over state governance.

From cooperative boards to the deputy chief ministership, Ajit Pawar’s journey was marked by strategic moves, strongholds in Baramati, and bold decisions that reshaped Maharashtra’s political landscape for decades.

The Baramati plane crash sent shockwaves across Maharashtra. Leaders from various parties mourned his sudden demise, recognizing the void left in state politics by one of its most powerful leaders.