'Hit the ground hard and exploded': Eyewitnesses on Ajit Pawar plane crash

IANS | January 28, 2026 12:06 PM

Baramati, Jan 28 (IANS) Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP president Ajit Pawar, the most energetic leader, fondly called 'Dada', who set an example for Maharashtra by starting his day at dawn, passed away on Wednesday in a plane crash in Baramati. The horrific accident occurred this morning as he was heading for Baramati to address political rallies amid the ongoing Pune zilla parishad and panchayat samitis.

Panic in Khalistani circles as India-EU deal boosts counter-terror cooperation

Vicky Nanjappa | January 28, 2026 11:42 AM

New Delhi, Jan 28 (IANS) The India-European Union Free Trade Agreement has been called the mother of all trade deals. While both sides have plenty to benefit, the Khalistanis are clearly unhappy with this deal. They feel that close ties between the European Union (EU) and India mean that the latter gains more leverage to target Khalistani elements.

Ajit Pawar, 'Dada' in Maharashtra politics, an able administrator is no more

Sanjay Jog | January 28, 2026 10:38 AM

Mumbai, Jan 28 (IANS) Ajit Anantrao Pawar, popularly known as 'Dada', was a dominant force in Maharashtra politics, known for his administrative efficiency, blunt speaking style, and his recent role in reshaping the state's political landscape. He served as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra (his 6th non-consecutive term) in the Mahayuti government, led by Devendra Fadnavis (CM) and Eknath Shinde (Deputy CM). He was the National President of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).