In a significant development for Maharashtra’s sports administration, Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been elected unopposed as the President of the Maharashtra Olympic Association (MOA) for the fourth consecutive term. The announcement was made on November 2, 2025, following a strategic understanding between Pawar and BJP MP Murlidhar Mohol, who had initially filed his nomination for the post but later withdrew.
The deal, brokered with the intervention of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, ensures that Mohol will assume the MOA presidency during the latter half of the four-year term. In the meantime, members from Mohol’s panel will be accommodated in key positions within the association, reflecting a power-sharing arrangement between the Mahayuti allies—NCP and BJP.
🧠 Breakdown of the Pawar–Mohol Agreement
| Component | Details | Strategic Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| MOA Presidency | Ajit Pawar to serve first half of term | Continuity of leadership |
| Vice Presidential Role | Murlidhar Mohol appointed Senior Vice President | Ensures BJP representation |
| Panel Accommodation | BJP-backed members to hold executive posts | Balanced governance |
| Fadnavis Intervention | CM mediated to avoid intra-alliance friction | Preserved Mahayuti unity |
| Election Status | Pawar elected unopposed | Avoided contest and public split |
The arrangement reflects a calculated political compromise aimed at maintaining coalition harmony.
📊 Ajit Pawar’s Tenure as MOA President – A Four-Term Overview
| Term Period | Key Achievements | Challenges Faced |
|---|---|---|
| 2013–2017 | Infrastructure upgrades in Pune, Nagpur | Funding delays |
| 2017–2021 | State-level athlete scholarships launched | COVID-19 disruptions |
| 2021–2025 | MOA digitalization and athlete tracking system | Internal factionalism |
| 2025–2029 (ongoing) | Strategic alliance with BJP, expansion plans | Balancing coalition interests |
Pawar’s leadership has been marked by administrative reforms and efforts to professionalize sports governance.
📈 Maharashtra Olympic Association – Current Structure and Influence
| Role | Office Bearer | Affiliation |
|---|---|---|
| President | Ajit Pawar | NCP |
| Senior Vice President | Murlidhar Mohol | BJP |
| General Secretary | TBD (from Mohol’s panel) | BJP |
| Treasurer | NCP nominee | NCP |
| Executive Committee Members | Mixed representation | NCP, BJP, Independents |
The MOA’s structure now reflects a coalition model, balancing political and administrative interests.
🗣️ Reactions from Sports and Political Circles
| Stakeholder | Commentary Summary |
|---|---|
| Ajit Pawar | “This is a moment of unity and commitment to sports.” |
| Murlidhar Mohol | “I look forward to contributing to Maharashtra’s sporting future.” |
| Devendra Fadnavis | “Glad to see consensus and collaboration prevail.” |
| Sports Federations | “We expect more funding and grassroots support.” |
The consensus has been welcomed as a mature political move that prioritizes sports development.
📌 MOA’s Strategic Goals for 2025–2029
| Focus Area | Planned Initiatives |
|---|---|
| Infrastructure | New training centers in tier-2 cities |
| Athlete Development | Expansion of scholarship and mentorship programs |
| Digital Integration | AI-based performance analytics for athletes |
| Event Hosting | Bid for National Games 2027 |
| Governance Reform | Transparent selection and funding mechanisms |
The roadmap aims to elevate Maharashtra’s status as a national sports powerhouse.
📌 Conclusion
Ajit Pawar’s unopposed re-election as President of the Maharashtra Olympic Association for a fourth term, following a strategic deal with BJP’s Murlidhar Mohol, marks a pivotal moment in the state’s sports governance. The alliance not only ensures political stability within the MOA but also sets the stage for ambitious reforms and development initiatives. As Maharashtra prepares to scale new heights in sports infrastructure and athlete performance, the Pawar–Mohol partnership will be closely watched for its ability to deliver results beyond political optics.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available political statements, media reports, and organizational data. It is intended for informational and editorial purposes only and does not constitute political endorsement or campaign advice.
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