Devendra Fadnavis celebrates Diwali with Nagpur farmers and clarifies NCP merger stance

Devendra Fadnavis has announced a rural outreach initiative, joining state ministers to celebrate Diwali alongside drought-affected farmers in Nagpur's Narkhed village to demonstrate direct government support for agrarian communities.

Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Fadnavis reiterated the state administration's commitment to expanding relief measures and ensuring long-term agricultural stability across rural Maharashtra. Addressing broader governance and political developments, he also outlined the ruling coalition's stance on speculative talks surrounding a potential merger between Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions.

NCP merger talks and Mahayuti alliance stability

Fadnavis clarified that the NCP led by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) operate as independent political entities. He stated that while both factions have the autonomy to discuss their future, any formal proposal regarding a merger would involve consultation with the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

"What I am certain about is that if they decide to take such a step, or if discussions are underway, they will consult us as well," Fadnavis said, adding that the BJP remains the principal partner in Maharashtra's ruling Mahayuti alliance. He noted that neither faction has approached the alliance regarding merger discussions to date, confirming that the coalition remains focused on delivery and governance.

Gokul Dairy governance and legal resolution

Fadnavis also addressed recent administrative decisions concerning the Kolhapur District Cooperative Milk Producers' Union, known as Gokul Dairy. Following a deadlock in the chairperson election, the state Cabinet approved a measure permitting the appointment of five directors to the board, four of whom hold voting rights, ensuring operational continuity for local dairy farmers.

Rejecting assertions that the state intended to intervene unnecessarily in local cooperatives, Fadnavis explained that government action was strictly a regulatory step to resolve a legal impasse. The chairperson's election requires an attendance quorum of 14 directors out of the 25 elected board members.

Fadnavis emphasized that the state government acts to protect public interest during procedural crises, encouraging cooperative leaders to resolve differences constructively to serve Maharashtra's dairy producers.