Mumbai, June 21: Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced on Sunday that the Mahayuti government has prioritized the welfare of farmers, women, laborers, youth, and common citizens, making several record decisions for the state’s overall development.
He highlighted significant advancements in areas such as loan waivers, financial assistance for farmers, the Ladki Behen scheme, industrial investment, metro networks, airports, highways, ports, and housing.
Shinde urged the opposition to abandon the politics of boycotting and to engage in constructive discussions in the assembly. He made these remarks during a press conference held on the eve of the assembly’s monsoon session.
Commenting on the opposition’s stance, he stated that the assembly session is meant for discussing issues related to the people of the state and delivering justice. However, the opposition has been using boycotts as a political tool.
He quipped, “Despite tensions between Iran and America leading to a ceasefire, the opposition’s boycott shows no signs of ending.”
Shinde emphasized that the government is fully prepared to answer all questions and called on the opposition to participate in debates within the house.
He clarified that the government wishes to discuss preparations for the monsoon, farmers’ issues, development projects, and public welfare matters in detail.
He noted that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has already presented comprehensive data on farmers, rainfall, and other issues, showcasing the government’s transparent working style.
Rejecting the opposition’s allegations, he stated that the Mahayuti government has provided unprecedented financial assistance to farmers in the state’s history. The government has implemented a loan waiver scheme worth ₹36,585 crores and a relief package of ₹15,000 crores in 2022. Farmers who repay crop loans on time are also receiving a bonus incentive of ₹50,000.
He remarked, “We have delivered justice to farmers in many pending matters during the tenure of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government. The government has never shied away from helping farmers.”
Shinde mentioned that assistance exceeding the National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) standards has been provided, and the eligibility limit has been increased to two hectares. Compensation has also been granted to farmers for losses due to snail infestations, continuous rainfall, and other natural disasters.
He asserted, “Farmers have the first right over the state’s treasury. They are our food providers, and they will never be left alone.”
Shinde acknowledged that farmers need additional support due to the El Niño effect. He advised farmers to avoid rushing into sowing and to follow the agricultural department’s guidelines to prevent issues like re-sowing.
He expressed hope for a good monsoon, which would provide relief to farmers.
The Deputy Chief Minister reported that the Mumbai-Pune missing link project has been inaugurated and a rural water supply policy has been implemented. He stated that over 3,500 kilometers of roads are being constructed in rural areas.
The Virar-Alibag multimodal corridor and metro projects worth ₹23,487 crores have also been approved. Additionally, work is underway on a rehabilitation policy benefiting 424 cities. To enhance government efficiency, the number of departments has been increased to 46.
Shinde mentioned that industrial investments worth ₹90,000 crores have been promoted, which is expected to create around 20,000 jobs.
He revealed that an Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy will be implemented in the state to advance the goal of a developed India. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Maharashtra’s development has gained new momentum, showing a significant difference between the progress before and after 2014.
He noted that the central government has approved several major projects for Maharashtra, including the ₹76,000 crore Vasai port project, which will be developed as a world-class port.
Regarding the Ladki Behen scheme, he assured that it will not be discontinued, and eligible women will continue to benefit. He clarified that action is being taken only in cases where benefits were wrongfully obtained.
He stated, “Eligible Ladki Behens will not be deprived of the scheme under any circumstances.”
Shinde confirmed that the implementation process of the loan waiver scheme is ongoing, proving that the government is committed to its promises.
Targeting the opposition, Shinde remarked that the success of the Mahayuti in local body, municipal, and other elections is a result of the government’s performance. He suggested that the withdrawal of opposition candidates’ names in the legislative council elections indicates a need for self-reflection.
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