New Delhi, 01 May (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Maharashtra Day on Friday, said the state government is making every possible effort to strengthen economic growth and that the vision of a “Developed Maharashtra” by 2047 is in harmony with the shared national goal of “Developed India.”
In a detailed three-page letter, the Prime Minister praised Maharashtra’s progress, cultural legacy, and contribution to nation-building. He said Maharashtra has long been a strong centre of social reform, spiritual consciousness, and industrial development, and has played a vital role in giving the country new direction.
Referring to the contributions of great leaders such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Lokmanya Tilak, and Veer Savarkar, the Prime Minister said their ideas continue to inspire the nation even today. He added that the saint tradition and the Warkari movement have strengthened the values of equality and devotion in society.
The Prime Minister described 2026 as a special year for Maharashtra. He said the year is witnessing celebrations marking the 300th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar, the 200th birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, the 150th birth anniversary of Sant Gadge Baba, the 100th anniversary of the Mahad Chavdar Tank satyagraha, important commemorations linked to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and the centenary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. He said these observances will strengthen social justice, women’s empowerment, spiritual awareness, and cultural identity.
In the letter, the Prime Minister described the granting of classical language status to Marathi in 2024 as a proud achievement. He also referred to Maharashtra’s forts being included in UNESCO’s World Heritage List, calling it a global recognition of the state’s valour and history.
On the economic front, the Prime Minister said Maharashtra is a leader in investment, industry, innovation, and infrastructure development. He also noted the support extended to the state by the Centre. Major projects such as railways, metro systems, airports, and ports are being accelerated in Maharashtra, including an allocation of Rs 24,000 crore for railway projects in 2025-26.
He mentioned the rapid pace of development in regions such as Gadchiroli, Amravati, Dhule, and Nandurbar, saying these areas are now emerging as new centres of investment and employment.
The Prime Minister said the state government has prepared a long-term development roadmap keeping 2029, 2035, and 2047 in mind, which is aligned with the national goal of “Developed India.”
He also praised efforts being made to address water scarcity in drought-prone regions, including Marathwada, and appreciated the cooperative model. He extended his good wishes to the state government for the upcoming Kumbh Mela preparations in Nashik and Trimbakeshwar. Recalling the blessings of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Rajmata Jijabai, the Prime Minister concluded his message with “Jai Maharashtra.”
The Prime Minister also referred to some tragic incidents in Maharashtra this year and expressed grief over the passing of senior leader Ajit Pawar, recalling his contribution.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
