Union Budget Bolsters Maharashtra's Urban Development: Fadnavis

Mumbai: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has welcomed the Union Budget, describing it as a strong and decisive step towards achieving Vikasit Bharat. Speaking to the media after the budget was presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Fadnavis highlighted that the budget's focus on planned urbanisation for cities with a population of more than five lakh will greatly benefit Maharashtra, a state experiencing rapid urbanisation.

Growing urbanisation is a significant challenge for Maharashtra, and the budget's emphasis on this area is a welcome move. Fadnavis noted that the budget's robust measures for investment and employment generation lay a solid foundation for sustainable growth. An investment of Rs 12 lakh crore has been earmarked for the infrastructure sector, along with substantial allocations for agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, and irrigation.

The CM also praised the budget's initiatives to empower women. Following the success of the Lakhpati Didi initiative, the proposal to create dedicated malls and industrial opportunities for women is highly significant, as are the plans for hostels for girl students pursuing higher education in every district. These measures are expected to boost women's participation in the economy and improve their access to education and employment.

Fadnavis further highlighted the healthcare sector's significant boost, particularly the decision to start emergency medical services (casualty and trauma centres) in district hospitals. This initiative will enhance the quality of healthcare services and improve emergency response times in rural areas.

The Mumbai–Pune and Pune–Hyderabad high-speed corridors are expected to significantly enhance GDP growth. Each Growth Hub will receive ₹5,000 crore over a period of five years, benefiting the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune Metropolitan Region, and the Nagpur Metropolitan Growth Hub. Fadnavis emphasized that these projects will not only improve connectivity but also stimulate economic activity in these regions.

Maharashtra, according to Fadnavis, will benefit to the tune of Rs one lakh crore from the Union Budget. This includes Rs 6,103 crore for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad high-speed corridor, Rs 1,702 crore for the Mumbai Metro, Rs 462 crore for MUTP 3, and other projects. These investments are expected to boost infrastructure development and improve the quality of life for residents.

Fadnavis also mentioned that the Union Budget and the Free Trade Agreement with the European Union will give a significant boost to Maharashtra, which is a leader in the manufacture of gems and jewellery, engineering tools, and textiles. The state's strategic location and industrial capabilities make it well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities and attract more foreign investment.

Overall, Fadnavis expressed confidence that the Union Budget will drive sustainable economic growth, improve infrastructure, and enhance the quality of life for the people of Maharashtra.