Mumbai, Oct 6 (NationPress) Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Monday that Maharashtra stands as the nation’s investment hotspot due to significant infrastructure advancements and effective policy reforms aimed at facilitating the establishment of new industries swiftly.

He emphasized that the government’s initiatives have opened up limitless investment opportunities within the state. During a meeting at Sahyadri Guest House, he urged investors to increase their investments in Maharashtra.

Present at the meeting were Industries Minister Uday Samant, Minister of State for Industries Indranil Naik, and 20-20 Investment Association President Vera Trojan.

“Thanks to the policy reforms and infrastructure growth, Maharashtra has evolved into the ‘growth hub’ of the nation. The state accounts for 60 percent of India’s total data capacity. Mumbai is recognized not just as the financial capital but also as the epicenter of entertainment and start-ups, establishing Maharashtra as the ‘investment magnet’ of the country,” explained Chief Minister Fadnavis.

He indicated that the state government is actively pursuing various schemes to make Maharashtra drought-free.

“The Jalyukta Shivar initiative, which encourages public participation, has been introduced to enhance groundwater levels. The second phase of this initiative is currently in progress. This has led to around 20,000 villages in the state achieving drought-free status. With increased water saturation, farmers are thriving, now able to cultivate two crops annually instead of one. Horticulture production has also surged,” he added.

CM Fadnavis announced the commencement of the country’s largest river linking project, connecting Wainganga to Nalganga, with a comprehensive study and detailed project report already completed. This initiative aims to enrich the water supply in Vidarbha.

This river linking project spans approximately 500 kilometers. To maximize irrigation across the state, water flowing from the Western Ghats towards the sea will be redirected to the Godavari basin through lift irrigation.

“The Godavari basin is experiencing a water shortage, which this project aims to resolve. Consequently, water will be made available for both agriculture and industry as needed. Upon completion, the entire Maharashtra will benefit from improved irrigation,” he added.

According to the Chief Minister, the state government is also focused on developing skilled labor to support industrial growth.

In line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, a comprehensive skill development program is being rolled out.

Anticipating future demands, training facilities in artificial intelligence are being established in the state’s industrial training institutes. He noted that skill training across various sectors is generating new employment opportunities.

“The state is witnessing a surge in job opportunities in the ports, shipbuilding, and logistics sectors, which are being enhanced through policy reforms. The government is dedicated to fostering employment in emerging sectors,” he stated.

CM Fadnavis revealed that initiatives like Drone Didi and Lakhpati Didi are being implemented to empower women. Women’s self-help groups are transforming into a movement for economic empowerment. The Drone Didi program includes training women to spray fields using drones.

Last year, 13 lakh women achieved the status of Lakhpati Didi, and this year, the number is expected to reach 25 lakh.

CM Fadnavis mentioned that numerous houses are being constructed to provide shelter for all homeless individuals through various schemes.

By the end of next year, four lakh houses are expected to be completed. Additionally, efforts are underway to provide affordable housing in urban areas.

The redevelopment of slums in major cities has commenced, including the world's largest Dharavi slum redevelopment project, which is already underway in Mumbai.

The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to delivering quality education across the state. More than one lakh schools are educating students statewide.

“The Central government introduced a new education policy in 2020, addressing future challenges, emerging technologies, and capacity building to compete globally. The state government has also partnered with Cambridge University for teacher training,” he added.