Fadnavis Unveils Mega Infra Push, Dares Critics On Hindi Row At News18 Lokmat Conclave

Last Updated:June 27, 2025, 22:39 IST

The chief miniser said Maharashtra is committed to boosting its maritime strength. He also underlined his focus on turning the state into a manufacturing powerhouse

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said the upcoming Wadhvan port will play a crucial role in making both Maharashtra and India a maritime power. File pic/PTI

Speaking at the News18 Lokmat Conclave in Mumbai, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday outlined his government’s clear vision for Maharashtra’s future growth, placing special focus on the young generation. He said that creating jobs through infrastructure-led development is the government’s priority, as this is a tried and tested model followed by successful nations worldwide.

Highlighting port-led growth, Fadnavis said Maharashtra is committed to boosting its maritime strength. The upcoming Wadhvan port will play a crucial role in making both Maharashtra and India a maritime power. He added that this mega port will be connected to the Samruddhi Mahamarg, enabling seamless connectivity for around 24 districts, which will open new economic corridors.

The CM underlined his focus on turning the state into a manufacturing powerhouse. He said, “Gadchiroli is transforming into a steel city, Nagpur is emerging as a defence and manufacturing hub, while Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar is fast becoming an EV hub."

He proudly shared that the Startup India Report 2025 has declared Maharashtra as the new startup capital of India, a clear indication that young innovators and entrepreneurs see Maharashtra as their growth destination.

On agriculture, Fadnavis said his government is pushing technological interventions to make farming more profitable and sustainable. He stressed that AI tools are being introduced for farmers to help them adapt to climate-proof farming methods.

He also spoke about the Shaktipeeth Mega Highway, which will boost economic prosperity in Marathwada and western Maharashtra. He said this highway will cut transport costs and bring down production costs, benefiting farmers and industries alike. He assured that those opposing the project now will understand its significance in the future.

Touching on the ongoing controversy over the Hindi language, Fadnavis reminded that there is no compulsion for Hindi but only the promotion of the tri-language policy as per the National Education Policy. He pointed out that the Mashelkar Committee, formed by the Uddhav Thackeray government itself, had backed compulsory Marathi, English, and Hindi in schools.

Finally, Fadnavis alleged that the planned anti-Hindi rally is merely a political stunt linked to the upcoming BMC elections. He recalled how the BJP once stepped back from claiming the Mayor’s post to support Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena for the sake of stability.

Mayuresh Ganapatye

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa...Read More

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @mayuganapa...

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