Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar dies in Baramati Learjet crash Jan 28, 2026. Key facts, political background, exam notes for competitive tests.

Early Life and Education:
Pawar hailed from a political family; his uncle Sharad Pawar is a veteran leader, and his father Anantrao Pawar died young, forcing Ajit to drop college studies in Mumbai and return home. He began in student politics and cooperatives, winning his first election as Baramati MLA in 1991 after a brief Lok Sabha stint (1991-1995 lost). Re-elected MLA seven times (1995-2024) from Baramati, he held portfolios like Water Resources, Finance, and Home.

Political Career Highlights:
Pawar's career featured bold moves: In 2019, he briefly allied with BJP for a short-lived government as Deputy CM, collapsing in 80 hours. He split NCP in 2023, securing its name/symbol via Election Commission, joined Mahayuti (BJP-Shiv Sena), and became Deputy CM under Eknath Shinde/Devendra Fadnavis from December 2024. Known as Maharashtra's "finance manager-in-chief," he drove irrigation projects and social welfare.

Family and Personal Life:
Married to Sunetra Pawar (contested 2024 Lok Sabha from Baramati), he had two sons: Parth (ex-MLA, involved in land scam allegations) and Jay. His family feud with Sharad Pawar peaked in 2024 polls when Sunetra faced cousin Supriya Sule.

FAQ:

What caused Ajit Pawar's death?
He died in a Learjet 45 crash near Baramati on Jan 28, 2026, during landing; probe ongoing.
How many terms as Deputy CM?
Six non-consecutive terms under Chavan, Fadnavis, Thackeray, Shinde - longest ever.

Why did he split NCP?
In 2023, for "generational change" and stability, aligning with BJP; won party name.