‘Human potential is the true asset’: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis; 250-acre ‘EduCity’ to be developed in Navi Mumbai

MUMBAI: “Today, it's not capital but human potential that is the true asset. Industries thrive where there is a skilled workforce, research, and innovation. Hence, creating a quality, multi-skilled workforce is essential.

Human resource development is, therefore, the most valuable investment,” said chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.He was speaking at the inauguration of the new buildings of Mukesh Patel School of Technology Management and Engineering and Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies (NMIMS), as well as the groundbreaking ceremony of the new educational complex of SVKM at Vile Parle. Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, NMIMS University Chancellor Amrishbhai Patel, SVKM Vice President Bhupeshbhai Patel, MLAs Parag Alavani and Amit Satam, former MLA Kripashankar Singh, Bharat Sanghvi, Jayant Gandhi, faculty members, and students were present on the occasion.Chief minister Fadnavis said that institutions like NMIMS have carved a distinct identity in India through academic excellence, a transparent admission process, and globally benchmarked education. In collaboration with the central government, a 250-acre “EduCity” will be developed in Navi Mumbai. Leading international universities such as the University of Aberdeen, University of York, University of Western Australia, Illinois Institute of Technology, and Istituto Europeo di Design will set up campuses there.

This initiative will bring global knowledge to India, reduce education costs, and lessen the need for students to go abroad.“Earlier, the education system was rigid and slow-moving. It would take years to revise curricula. Now, with the National Education Policy (NEP), we have flexibility and dynamism. Maharashtra and Mumbai have become startup hubs of India. The state government has created a fund to support new entrepreneurs,” he said. He also mentioned that a committee has been formed to review building height restrictions for educational institutions, and a decision will soon follow upon receiving the report. Additionally, efforts will be made to identify land for setting up a world-class stadium for students and local youth.“National Education Policy is a historic step toward India’s intellectual renaissance” – Union Education Minister Dharmendra PradhanUnion Minister Dharmendra Pradhan remarked that India’s freedom struggle was not just against the British but also aimed at reviving Indian values through education.

The Macaulay education system imposed by the British undermined India’s traditional knowledge and fostered a servile mindset. The National Education Policy 2020 is a historic move toward ideological and mental rejuvenation of the country. Its effective implementation must be ensured at all levels.He elaborated on the history of Indian education, the need for reforms, and the guiding principles for the future.

Addressing the audience, he said that institutions like Narsee Monjee are not just educational establishments but also symbols of new India’s aspirations. He called upon SVKM to contribute significantly in key sectors such as commerce, trading, and entrepreneurship, which form the backbone of the nation’s economy.Speaking directly to students, the Minister said, “You are not just students, you are warriors of a new India.

Your role is vital in building a developed nation.”Interaction with StudentsChief minister Fadnavis and minister Pradhan toured the buildings of Mukesh Patel School of Technology Management and Engineering and Narsee Monjee Institute of Management Studies. They interacted with students at the automation and manufacturing labs to learn about the latest technological developments. They also visited the Prof. Y.K. Bhushan Information and Knowledge Resource Center, including its digital and finance labs and the library, and engaged in conversations with the students.