Wed Dec 04 21:51:14 UTC 2024: ## Fadnavis Returns as Maharashtra CM, Shinde and Pawar Appointed Deputy CMs

**Mumbai, [Date]** – Devendra Fadnavis will be sworn in as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for a second term on Thursday, with Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar joining him as Deputy Chief Ministers. The swearing-in ceremony, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will take place at 5:30 PM at Azad Maidan.

The announcement follows a meeting between Fadnavis and Shinde earlier this week, where Fadnavis successfully persuaded the Shiv Sena leader to join the BJP-led Mahayuti government. Shinde, who had previously expressed aspirations for the Chief Minister’s post, ultimately endorsed Fadnavis’s leadership. The inclusion of NCP leader Ajit Pawar as a second Deputy Chief Minister further solidifies the Mahayuti alliance, which secured a resounding victory in recent state assembly elections, winning 235 seats. The BJP, as the largest party with 132 seats, will lead the coalition government.

Fadnavis, after being unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP’s legislative party, met with the Governor to stake his claim to form the government. He was accompanied by both Shinde and Pawar, underscoring the unity within the alliance.

Shinde praised the Mahayuti government’s accomplishments over the past two-and-a-half years, expressing pride in their work. The new government, now officially formed, pledges to continue delivering on its promises to the people of Maharashtra.

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