The political scenario in Maharashtra has recently undergone a major change after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis allotted ministerial portfolios. The new cabinet formed after the November 2024 parliamentary elections will have a larger number of ministers, raising concerns about the distribution of responsibilities and the overall effectiveness of governance. Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar admitted that not all ministers were happy with the roles assigned to them, underscoring the challenges posed by such a large cabinet.
Ajit Pawar pointed out at a recent event in Baramati, “Since there are so many ministers, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has to allocate a portfolio to each minister. Obviously, some Happy, some unhappy.
The Maharashtra cabinet currently consists of 42 ministers, including 36 cabinet ministers and only 6 state ministers. This disproportionality raises discussions about the effectiveness of governance and the ability of ministers to manage their responsibilities effectively.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has retained the post of finance minister during the Maharashtra cabinet portfolio allocation.
Ajit Pawar said, “We have received various letters regarding pending projects. Give us some time; every work will be completed. This commitment comes at a time when many ministers are visiting their constituencies to address local issues and jump-start stalled programs.
The 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections will be crucial for the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which returns to power after a hotly contested campaign.
As the BJP clashes with its alliance partners – Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena and NCP’s Ajit Pawar faction – over key sectors Negotiations were held and the allocation of the portfolio was postponed.
CM Fadnavis retained key portfolios including home, energy, law and justice ministries, while Eknath Shinde was assigned to urban development and housing ministries.
Ajit Pawar becomes Maharashtra Finance Minister
As Maharashtra prepares for the upcoming budget session on March 3, Pawar stressed the importance of collaboration among cabinet members to ensure effective governance.
Ajit Pawar said he intended to work closely with Fadnavis and Shinde in preparing the budget, saying, “I would like to express my trust and confidence to Chief Minister Fadnavis and Deputy Minister Eknath Shinde. Prepare a budget.