While NCP president Jayant Patil and party leader Jitendra Awhad broke down after Pawar's decision, party MP Praful Patel beseeched him to withdraw his decision. Patel said Pawar did not take anyone into confidence before announcing his resignation. Pic/Shadab Khan

Pawar said his political journey began on May 1, 1960, and has continued unabated for the past 63 years, having served Maharashtra and India in various capacities during this period. File Photo

"I have three years left of Rajya Sabha membership in Parliament, during which I will focus on issues related to Maharashtra and India, with a caveat of not taking any responsibility. After a long period of public life from May 1, 1960, to May 1, 2023, it is necessary to take a step back. Hence, I have decided to step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party," Pawar said. Pic/Shadab Khan

Senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar said the senior Pawar will abide by the decision of the party's committee on his resignation.

Sharad Pawar told his emotional workers opposing his resignation, "I am with you, but not as NCP chief.". Pic/Sameer Abedi

The move comes at a time when Pawar is seen as a pole to tie opposition parties of different hues, interests and ideologies, ahead of the Lok Sabha polls next year.
The NCP chief said he intends to do more in the fields of education, agriculture, cooperation, sports and culture, amongst others and also pay attention to issues related to the youth, students, workers, Dalits, tribals and other weaker sections of the society. File Photo