Devendra Fadnavis Takes Charge as 20th Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Holds First Cabinet Meeting.

MUMBAI:

Devendra Fadnavis was sworn in as the 20th Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday evening, marking his third term in office. He, along with his deputies Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, assumed their new roles at the state secretariat, Mantralaya, after a grand ceremony at Azad Maidan. The event was attended by prominent figures including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several state chief ministers, Union ministers, industry leaders, and film stars.

Upon their arrival at Mantralaya, the leaders received a traditional welcome from the staff. Fadnavis, Shinde, and Pawar paid their respects by offering floral tributes to the portraits of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Jijabai, B R Ambedkar, and Mahatma Phule. Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik was also present for the occasion.

Following the formalities, the new leadership held their first cabinet meeting, engaging with senior officials to discuss key matters. Fadnavis’ return to power marks another milestone in Maharashtra’s political landscape, with the state witnessing multiple leadership changes over the years. Notably, former Chief Ministers such as Shankarrao Chavan, Vilasrao Deshmukh, and Ashok Chavan served two terms, while Vasantdada Patil and Sharad Pawar held the post four times.