CM Devendra Fadnavis Expected to Present Maharashtra Budget 2026-27
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is likely to present the Maharashtra budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, following the untimely death of Deputy Chief Minister and state Finance Minister Ajit Pawar. The tragic plane crash that claimed Pawar's life has created a significant vacuum in the state's financial leadership just ahead of the crucial budget session scheduled to commence on February 23.
Time Constraints and Expertise Drive Decision
According to highly placed sources within the ruling Mahayuti coalition, the time constraints and mammoth exercise involved in budget preparation make Fadnavis the most probable candidate to present this year's financial statement. "Given the time constraint and mammoth exercise that precedes preparation of the Budget, the possibility of Fadnavis presenting the Maharashtra budget 2026-27 cannot be ruled out," revealed a senior source.
The cabinet currently lacks experienced members who have handled budget preparation and presentation, making Fadnavis's economic and financial expertise particularly valuable. A senior BJP minister, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed this assessment.
Challenging Financial Landscape
The upcoming budget presentation comes at a particularly challenging time for Maharashtra's economy. The state faces multiple financial pressures including:
- Rising state debt reaching Rs 9.6 lakh crore
- Financial commitments for welfare schemes worth approximately Rs one lakh crore
- Implementation of programs like Ladki Bahin Yojana
- Free power provisions for farmers
The budget preparation will require careful balancing between maintaining fiscal discipline and fulfilling promises in critical sectors including agriculture, infrastructure, and social welfare.
Fadnavis's Financial Credentials
Devendra Fadnavis brings substantial experience to the budget presentation role. His financial credentials include:
- During his tenure as an elected member in the State Legislative Assembly from 1999 to 2014, Fadnavis established himself as an expert in budget analysis
- As Chief Minister during his first term from 2014 to 2019, he held the crucial Home portfolio while delegating Finance to senior party minister Sudhir Mungantiwar
- In the Eknath Shinde-led coalition government, Fadnavis served as Deputy Chief Minister with responsibility for both Home and Finance departments
- He was divested of the Finance portfolio only when the NCP joined the Mahayuti coalition, with the responsibility transferred to accommodate Ajit Pawar
Legacy of Ajit Pawar
The late Ajit Pawar had already initiated preparations for the 2026-27 budget before his tragic death. Details were scheduled to be finalized following the local body elections in February. Pawar was poised to present the state budget for a record twelfth time, highlighting his extensive experience in Maharashtra's financial management.
The upcoming budget session beginning February 23 will be closely watched as Maharashtra navigates complex economic challenges under potentially new financial leadership.
