“We have been working to increase sugarcane production for several years. Working in silos is not possible, as the government’s role is equally important,” Pawar said. “There is nothing wrong in talking to representatives of the state government on issues concerning the common people.”

The remarks came amid heightened political chatter triggered by three meetings between the uncle-nephew duo within a fortnight. On Monday, the two leaders appeared together at a sugar industry event in Pune, fuelling speculation of rapprochement. However, Pawar downplayed the significance of the meetings.

In another development that caught political observers’ attention, Pawar was seen attending a meeting at Vidya Pratishthan, an educational institution in Baramati, alongside Ajit Pawar’s wife and Rajya Sabha MP Sunetra Pawar and his grandnephew Yugendra Pawar. A moment from the event — where Yugendra was seen touching Sunetra Pawar’s feet on his birthday — drew attention for its symbolic message.

“Despite political differences, my affection and respect for my uncle (Ajit Pawar) and aunt remains unchanged,” Yugendra said, in response to questions about the gesture.

The relationship between Sharad and Ajit Pawar turned hostile after Ajit led a split in the Nationalist Congress Party in July 2023 and joined the BJP-led Mahayuti government in the state. Several MLAs from the original NCP joined Ajit’s faction, triggering the biggest crisis of Sharad Pawar’s political career.