Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, has outlined a comprehensive strategy that aims to position the state as an investment powerhouse, focusing on regional development, sustainability, and technological advancements.
Speaking at the India Global Forum Next event in Mumbai, Fadnavis highlighted a multi-faceted approach that includes significant infrastructure projects, the promotion of green and smart technologies, and a push for balanced regional growth that will bridge the economic disparities across the state. At the heart of Maharashtra’s development plans is an initiative to tackle drought, one of the state’s most persistent issues. Fadnavis revealed that the state is investing approximately ₹3 lakh crore into four river-linking projects designed to make Maharashtra drought-free. The projects will bolster water supply across various regions, particularly addressing the needs of agricultural communities and ensuring a more resilient water infrastructure. Alongside this, a canal-based irrigation system in Vidarbha aims to revolutionise farming in the region, promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
Fadnavis emphasized that the state is working to foster an ecosystem that attracts investments across its diverse regions. By removing bureaucratic roadblocks and enhancing ease of doing business, Maharashtra intends to create opportunities for both national and international investors. “We are ensuring smooth and uninterrupted facilities for investors, creating a conducive environment for investment across Maharashtra,” he said, underscoring the state’s commitment to providing the infrastructure needed to support long-term growth. One of the key regions that is expected to play a pivotal role in this transformation is the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Fadnavis noted that MMR holds the potential to generate a USD 1.5 trillion economy, contributing significantly to Maharashtra’s broader goal of achieving a USD 3 trillion economy. Central to this vision is the development of Navi Mumbai as a second hub, or the “Third Mumbai,” which will house an EduCity and an Innovation City.
The project, which is already seeing universities finalising plans to set up campuses, aims to make the region a global destination for education and technology innovation. This area is also poised to benefit from the completion of the Navi Mumbai International Airport and the Atal Setu sea bridge, which will enhance connectivity between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, offering both economic and environmental benefits. Maharashtra’s growing leadership in artificial intelligence (AI) was also a major highlight. Fadnavis stated that the state is rapidly becoming a leader in AI in India, with a number of global companies already operating within the state. This is in line with the government’s efforts to drive technological innovation across sectors such as manufacturing, education, and healthcare, contributing to a greener, smarter future.
The state is also making strides in its push towards a sustainable future, with a particular focus on green technologies. The development of clean energy infrastructure, including the expansion of solar energy capacity in Vidarbha and the promotion of green and smart technologies, will not only drive economic growth but also ensure that Maharashtra’s expansion is eco-friendly. Fadnavis highlighted that the Maharashtra government is committed to ensuring that industries in the state adhere to green standards, aligning with global sustainability goals. In addition to the focus on urban hubs like MMR and Navi Mumbai, the state is placing significant emphasis on rural and underdeveloped regions. For instance, Pune has already emerged as a key hub for the automobile industry, while Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is positioning itself as a centre for electric vehicle manufacturing. In Gadchiroli, efforts are underway to establish a new steel hub, creating jobs and boosting regional economies. The state’s infrastructure push, highlighted by projects like the Goa-Nagpur Shaktipeeth corridor and the Samruddhi Expressway, promises to better connect rural and urban areas, further driving inclusive growth.
The ongoing development of the Vadhavan port and the Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway will also contribute to the creation of a “Fourth Mumbai,” focusing on industrial and logistical expansion. Fadnavis’ remarks outline a forward-thinking, inclusive, and sustainable development strategy for Maharashtra that focuses on equitable growth across regions. By investing in both urban and rural areas, promoting green technologies, and ensuring a robust infrastructure, the state aims to not only achieve economic growth but also contribute meaningfully to environmental sustainability and social equity. With a strong focus on future-ready technologies and balanced regional development, Maharashtra appears poised to lead the nation towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.
Maharashtras Vision for Balanced Development Gains Momentum
