Mumbai, May 2 (IANS) On Maharashtra’s Foundation Day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed a heartfelt letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing profound gratitude for the Union Government’s unwavering support in the state’s journey toward modernisation and preservation of its cultural heritage.

The letter highlights a decade of collaboration that has seen Maharashtra transform into a powerhouse of infrastructure and social welfare.

Fadnavis thanked the Prime Minister for his “remarkable precision” in describing the state’s rich identity, noting that the Prime Minister’s love for Maharashtra is evident in his recent correspondence.

Key cultural milestones achieved under the current leadership include the successful inclusion of 11 forts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the UNESCO World Heritage List, a move he credited to the PM’s firm insistence.

The historic granting of Classical Language status to Marathi, a long-standing demand fulfilled under the NDA government, he said, adding that pivotal support for honouring Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, including the purchase of his London residence and the unveiling of his bust at UNESCO headquarters.

The Chief Minister emphasised that projects pending for nearly 25 years were finally realised through the Prime Minister’s ‘Pragati’ meetings, which cleared critical bottlenecks. He said that notable projects completed include the Atal Setu, Mumbai Coastal Road, Navi Mumbai International Airport, and the Samruddhi Mahamarg.

CM Fadnavis pointed to the Vadhavan Port as a future global top-ten port expected to generate 10 lakh jobs. The rise of new hubs in cities like Nashik and Nagpur, alongside the establishment of the Auric City in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, were highlighted as pillars of economic growth.

The letter also touched upon significant social and security triumphs, including Gadchiroli’s transformation. Once a Maoist stronghold, Gadchiroli is now emerging as the “Steel City of the Nation,” with plans to become a Green Steel Hub producing steel more competitively than China, he stated.

Under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, supplemented by state funds, Maharashtra’s farmers now receive Rs 12,000 annually, he said.

According to the CM, rapid approval of special relief packages and the completion of over 100 irrigation projects have provided critical support to Vidarbha and Marathwada.

“Maharashtra can never forget your support and contribution to its development over the past 12 years. Under your leadership, Maharashtra will stand firmly by your side in fulfilling the dream of a Viksit Bharat,” said the CM.

Fadnavis concluded by acknowledging the Prime Minister’s personal commitment to the state, citing recent initiatives like the WAVES Summit 2025 and the allocation of Rs 400 crore for an Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT).

–IANS

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