New Delhi, Jan. 28 -- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu have expressed their condolences following the tragic demise of Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar in a plane crash at Baramati.

Calling him a leader with a strong grassroots connect, PM Modi described Pawar's untimely death as "shocking and saddening."In a social media post on X, PM Modi said, "Shri Ajit Pawar Ji was a leader of the people with a strong grassroots connect. He was widely respected for his dedication to serving Maharashtra, empowering the poor, and his deep understanding of administrative matters. His untimely demise is shocking and saddening. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."He also added, "Saddened by the tragic air...