State Government Committed to Fort Conservation – CM Devendra Fadnavis

Shiv Jayanti Celebrations at Shivneri Fort

Pune : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the continuous preservation and restoration of forts associated with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, considering them even more sacred than temples.

Speaking at the Shiv Jayanti celebrations held at Shivneri Fort, CM Fadnavis highlighted Shivaji Maharaj’s unparalleled leadership as a warrior and an administrator, dedicating his life to public welfare. He also extended his greetings to the citizens on the occasion.

The event saw the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy CM and Pune District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar, Cultural Affairs Minister Adv. Ashish Shelar, MLAs Sharad Sonawane and Bapusaheb Pathare, former MLA Atul Benke, Kolhapur Range Special IG Sunil Fulare, District Planning Committee Member Asha Buchke, District Collector Jitendra Dudi, CEO of Zilla Parishad Gajanan Patil, Superintendent of Police Pankaj Deshmukh, Deputy Conservator of Forests Amol Satpute, and Maratha Seva Sangh President Vijay Ghogare.

CM Fadnavis emphasized that various developmental projects are underway at forts such as Raigad, Shivneri, and others. The government is actively removing encroachments from these historical sites to maintain their authenticity.

He also announced that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, 12 forts in Maharashtra have been selected for nomination as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A presentation showcasing their architectural excellence, water conservation techniques, and ecological significance will be made at an upcoming UNESCO conference in Paris. CM Fadnavis expressed confidence that these forts will gain global recognition, attracting international tourists.

Reflecting on history, he noted how Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj united people from diverse backgrounds to build the Maratha army, igniting the spirit of Swarajya. He emphasized that Shivaji Maharaj remains the guiding force behind India’s self-reliance and national pride.

With the 400th birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj approaching in five years, the government is committed to completing development projects in and around Shivneri Fort.

Commitment to Good Governance – DCM Eknath Shinde

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reiterated the state’s dedication to Shivaji Maharaj’s vision of good governance, ensuring the preservation of forts, temples, and historical sites. Plans are in place to enhance visitor amenities and develop a fort tourism circuit.

He also highlighted the inspiration drawn from Shivaji Maharaj’s naval strength, noting its significance in India’s maritime history. The inclusion of Shivaji’s emblem on the Indian Navy’s flag is a matter of national pride.

No Shortage of Funds for Fort Conservation – DCM Ajit Pawar

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar assured that the government will allocate adequate funds for the conservation of forts such as Shivneri, Raigad, Pratapgad, Sinhagad, and Purandar. He urged everyone to uphold Shivaji Maharaj’s values of social harmony, justice, and good governance, contributing to Maharashtra’s progress.

The celebrations featured cultural performances, including traditional lullabies sung by women in heritage attire, a police band playing Maharashtra’s state song “Garja Maharashtra Majha,” and a reenactment of Shivaji Maharaj’s life by schoolchildren.

CM Fadnavis and DCMs later paid floral tributes to statues of young Shivaji and Maa Jijau. The event concluded with the presentation of the Shivner Bhushan Award to distinguished individuals for their contributions to society.