Mumbai, May 1 (IANS) On the occasion of Maharashtra Day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday addressed the state, balancing a vision of rapid industrial growth with a warning for the agricultural sector regarding the upcoming monsoon. Citing Meteorological Department forecasts, CM Fadnavis advised that the El Niño effect might lead to below-average rainfall for the 2026 season.

“Our Kharif season is entirely dependent on rain. I urge farmers to take these forecasts seriously. Do not rush into sowing operations. Please wait and follow the specific instructions issued by the Agriculture Department to avoid crop failure,” he cautioned.

To mitigate the impact of a potential dry spell, the CM assured that the government has already initiated planning for water and fodder management. He announced prioritised funding for Jalyukt Shivar & Galyukt Shivar, micro irrigation and resource supply.

“The government will speed up water conservation and desilting projects, encourage the widespread use of drip and sprinkler irrigation and ensure there is no shortage of seeds or fertilisers across the state,” he said.

Further, CM Fadnavis highlighted Maharashtra’s position as a leader in infrastructure, noting that 173 km of Metro lines are currently operational across Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. He pledged an addition of 50 km to the Metro network every year.

“Maharashtra Day is not just a celebration but a day for introspection. We must evaluate where we were, where we are, and how much further we have to go,” Fadnavis stated.

He emphasised that the state contributes nearly 14 per cent to India’s GDP and remains the top destination for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), securing Rs 1,64,875 crore in 2024-25—roughly 39 per cent of India’s total FDI.

He also pointed to the state’s success at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where MoUs worth Rs 30 lakh crore were signed, aiming to generate 40 lakh jobs. “Even amid global economic instability, Maharashtra has leapt forward to become the world’s 30th largest economy,” he added.

Looking towards the future, CM Fadnavis reiterated the state’s commitment to the ‘Developed Maharashtra’ road map. He set a target for Maharashtra to become a $5 trillion economy by 2047, aligning with the national vision.

Despite global conflicts and energy crises, he credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in solar energy and fuel security for keeping India stable during turbulent times.

“No matter the natural calamities, the chariot of Maharashtra’s development will not stop,” he concluded, reassuring citizens that the state government stands firmly with them.

–IANS

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