Opposition Urged to Collaborate for Maharashtra's Prosperity: Eknath Shinde

Mumbai, March 7 (NationPress) Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday urged the opposition to refrain from politicizing public issues and instead join the developmental journey aimed at making Maharashtra prosperous.

In response to the debate concerning the Governor's address in the state council, he emphasized that the government's mission is to foster a prosperous Maharashtra by accelerating development, which would significantly improve the lives of common citizens, promote industrial growth, and ensure happiness among farmers, women, youth, and the elderly.

"Under the guidance of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, our new government has embarked on a robust start. The effects will be evident in the upcoming Budget. We aim to enhance the state's development pace and quadruple its capacity. Our focus is on the welfare of the citizens. Over the past two and a half years of the Mahayuti government, we have undertaken historic development projects and initiated welfare programs. Hence, our responsibility has increased as we were elected with a significant majority in the Assembly elections," stated the Deputy Chief Minister.

DCM Shinde confirmed that the flagship Ladki Bahin Yojana will continue its implementation and not be terminated.

He criticized the opposition for disseminating false information regarding the Ladki Bahin Yojana, asserting that there have been no alterations to the scheme's criteria.

"Beloved sisters eligible for benefits under the Ladki Bahin Yojana will not be disqualified. The scheme will remain operational," he assured.

He highlighted the importance of high-security registration plates for vehicles.

"The opposition is also misinforming the public about this issue. When compared to other states, our rates are not excessive. In other states, the rates were established for 2020-21, while our state’s rates have been set for October 2024. Furthermore, Maharashtra’s rates include GST and fixing charges. In comparison to other states, the rates for number plates here are lower," he clarified.

He stated that those who disrespect Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj will face consequences in Maharashtra.

Addressing the opposition's claims about the MoUs signed for investments, DCM Shinde accused them of spreading misinformation.

"Maharashtra has achieved record foreign investment in the last decade within just nine months of the fiscal year 2024-25," he stated.

A total of Rs 1,39,434 crore has been amassed in the initial nine months of the financial year 2024-2025.

"The Chief Minister has referenced the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT). The total FDI equity inflow from October 2019 to December 2024 is reported at Rs 6,71,863 crore, accounting for 31 percent of the nation’s total FDI equity inflow," DCM Shinde mentioned.

He added that 80 percent of the investment agreements made in Davos over the past three years have been executed.

"Our objective was to rejuvenate the state's economy and build confidence among investors and entrepreneurs, and we have successfully accomplished this," he noted.

He affirmed that Maharashtra is a preferred destination for foreign tourists.

"Our focus extends beyond Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, as we aim to develop other districts as tourist circuits," he added.

"Our priority is to ensure affordable housing for the common man. The government has devised a policy for this. We are expediting rehabilitation projects in Mumbai. Maharashtra ranks number one in the nation for constructing houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in rural areas," he concluded.