Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday hailed the state’s role as a key driver in India’s unstoppable growth story and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to development across sectors.
Speaking after hoisting the Tricolour at Mantralaya on the occasion of the 79th Independence Day, Fadnavis paid homage to the freedom fighters, martyrs and soldiers safeguarding the nation’s borders. He lauded the valour of India’s armed forces, citing Operation Sindoor as an example of the country’s military prowess in eliminating terrorist and strategic targets in Pakistan.
“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, India has climbed from the 11th to the 4th largest economy in the world. No one can halt the country’s progress, we are even making our mark in space,” he said.
Fadnavis stressed the importance of the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission, urging people to embrace swadeshi (indigenous products) and work collectively towards a developed India. He highlighted Maharashtra’s contribution, noting that the state accounts for 40 per cent of the nation’s total foreign direct investment.
The Chief Minister said Maharashtra leads in manufacturing, exports, and start-ups, while also focusing on education, skill development, and human resource growth. Farmers have been receiving free electricity for the past five years, and the state is actively developing solar and green energy projects.
On rural and industrial development, he announced that Gadchiroli, once affected by Naxal insurgency, is on track to become a steel hub within a decade. He added that artificial intelligence is being integrated into agriculture to boost productivity.
Fadnavis also underlined the state’s infrastructure push, including new airports and ports, alongside upgrades to existing facilities. “Maharashtra is the biggest participant in the nation’s development journey,” he asserted.
