Ajit Pawar Dies in Plane Crash Near Baramati, 18 Months After Helicopter Scare

• Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash near Baramati airport, killing all five people on board.
• The incident occurred 18 months after Pawar experienced a frightening helicopter near-miss during heavy monsoon weather in July 2024.
• During the 2024 helicopter incident, Pawar, accompanied by Devendra Fadnavis and Uday Samant, was visibly anxious as the pilot struggled with poor visibility.
• The 66-year-old leader's Learjet 45 aircraft lost control while landing at Baramati, resulting in fire and smoke from the debris.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed their condolences, highlighting Pawar's grassroots connection and administrative acumen.

Why It Matters: Ajit Pawar died in a plane crash near Baramati, a tragic end following a previous helicopter scare.