Advancing Various Schemes for the Common Good Across Diverse Sectors in Maharashtra – Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Mumbai : Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the Legislative Council, highlighting Maharashtra’s advancements and the state government’s initiatives over the past two years. He emphasized that the government has been diligently implementing schemes across various sectors such as industry, employment, agriculture, youth, and support for the underprivileged.

During the discussion on the Governor’s address, Fadnavis provided detailed information about the schemes being implemented. Following this, Deputy Speaker Dr. Neelam Gorhe announced that the resolution to congratulate the Governor was passed unanimously.

Fadnavis noted that Maharashtra has achieved a half-trillion-dollar economy, with a rapid development of around six lakh crores in the past year. Maharashtra consistently ranked number one in investment from 2014-19 and has maintained this position in foreign investment for the past two years.

Discussing the industry sector, Fadnavis highlighted the difference between Surat Diamond Bourse and Bharat Diamond Bourse in Mumbai, emphasizing that Mumbai remains a key hub for manufacturing and exporting gems and jewelry, contributing 75% of India’s total exports in this sector.

Regarding employment, Fadnavis stated that the government had resolved to create 75,000 jobs, with over 57,000 candidates already appointed and more than 19,000 to receive orders within a month. Recruitment for 31,000 additional posts is ongoing, aiming for completion within three months. This recruitment process has seen over 70 lakh candidates without any incidents of paper leakage. Additionally, the private sector has benefited from significant employment opportunities through the Namo Maharojgar Melaava events.

Fadnavis mentioned that 17,000 police posts have been filled, with another 17,000 in the recruitment process. He assured that 55% of the recruitment process is complete, and efforts are being made to conduct the remaining recruitment during the rainy season to avoid delays due to the election code of conduct.

For farmers, the government is implementing schemes like Jalyukta Shivar Yojana and solar agricultural pumps. Currently, only 30,000 farmer requests for solar pumps are pending, and nine lakh solar pumps are available. Around 400 to 500 solar pumps are being connected daily, with a plan to provide solar agricultural pumps to all needy farmers. Electricity bills for agricultural pumps up to 7.5 HP have been waived, benefiting approximately 44 lakh pumps.

Fadnavis clarified that prepaid smart meters will not be installed in ordinary consumers’ homes but in government and Mahavitaran establishments. Maintenance and repair of these meters for the next ten years will be the responsibility of the contractor companies, ensuring no burden on consumers.

The state government has approved 121 irrigation projects, with plans to utilize excess water from river linking projects. Notable projects like Vainganga-Nalganga, Damanganga-Ektare, Godavari, and Nar-Par Girna are in progress, with tenders for some expected this year.

Fadnavis also mentioned development projects in Mumbai, including Atal Setu and Sagari Kinara Marg, which will accelerate the city’s growth. The central government has approved port expansion worth Rs 76,000 crores, which will significantly boost the state’s economy.

Changes have been made to the Chief Minister-Majhi Ladki Baheen scheme to accommodate public demand, removing the five-acre farm condition and relaxing requirements for residence and income certificates. Applications can now be submitted within 60 days, with funds disbursed from July for applications filed in August. Setu Kendras are compensated for each application, and Fadnavis urged citizens not to pay intermediaries.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to implementing inclusive and effective schemes for the welfare of Maharashtra’s citizens.