Maharashtra Legislature's Crucial Budget Session Amid Mounting Challenges

The Maharashtra Legislature's budget session, beginning February 23, faces challenges such as mounting debt, Rajya Sabha elections, and the aftermath of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar's death. Key issues include fiscal expansion, capital expenditure, and climate resilience. Ajit Pawar's death may prompt a transparent probe and CBI inquiry demand.

The Maharashtra Legislature's budget session, set to begin on February 23, is poised to address significant challenges, including mounting state debt, Rajya Sabha elections, and the fallout from the death of Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. Political observers note that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, also the finance portfolio holder, aims to balance fiscal expansion while grappling with the state's debt estimated at over Rs 9 lakh crore.

Fadnavis will present the 2026-27 state budget on March 6, focusing on transforming Maharashtra into a one-trillion-dollar economy. Observers anticipate significant investments in inter-city connectivity projects amid fiscal constraints. Additionally, the government is poised to sustain flagship programs like the 'Mukhya Mantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana' and possibly introduce a climate-resilient agriculture package in response to erratic weather patterns affecting Marathwada and Vidarbha.

The session also focuses on Ajit Pawar's tragic death, highlighted by demands for a transparent investigation and a potential CBI probe. The political landscape is complicated further by Rajya Sabha elections, with seven seats up for grabs, including eminent figures like Sharad Pawar and Ramdas Athawale. The absence of a leader of opposition in both houses marks this critical juncture in Maharashtra politics.

(With inputs from agencies.)