Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar on Sunday, 21 June declared that the Mahayuti government remains firmly committed to Maharashtra's all-round development, with public welfare and democratic dialogue at the core of its legislative agenda. Her remarks came on the eve of the state legislature's monsoon session, held at a press conference in Mumbai.

Monsoon Session Priorities

DCM Pawar described the legislature as the 'supreme platform in a democratic system' to address public expectations and aspirations. She said the upcoming session is expected to see extensive debate on development works, public interest matters, and key issues affecting the state's progress. She expressed confidence that the session would accelerate development and lead to decisions in Maharashtra's best interests.

Opposition Boycotts Pre-Session High Tea

The traditional high tea event held on the eve of the session — a long-standing practice aimed at fostering dialogue between the ruling alliance and the opposition — was boycotted by opposition parties. DCM Pawar called the gesture unfortunate, noting that the event was intended to encourage constructive communication rather than serve as a formality. 'Differences of opinion can exist, but dialogue is extremely important in a democracy. Constructive discussion and positive cooperation are necessary for the welfare of the public,' she said. She added that the state government is open to every constructive suggestion from the opposition.

Delayed Monsoon and Farmer Advisory

Pawar also flagged the impact of the El Niño effect, which has slowed the progress of the monsoon across Maharashtra. Farmers have been advised to hold off on sowing operations and rely instead on official forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) before making any agricultural decisions.

PM-Kisan Relief: ₹1,817 Crore Transferred to Maharashtra Farmers

To cushion the farming community against the delayed monsoon, DCM Pawar highlighted the recent release of the 23rd instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. Prime Minister Narendra Modi released the instalment online two days prior, directly transferring ₹1,817 crore into the bank accounts of approximately 91 lakh farmer families across the state. Pawar said the financial assistance would provide meaningful support to farmers during this challenging period.

With the monsoon session set to begin, the government's ability to translate its stated commitments into legislative action — particularly on agrarian distress and development spending — will be closely watched.