INDIA. Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde anticipates a substantial increase in Mumbai’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) with the assistance of Niti Aayog’s planning, targeting a goal of $300 billion by 2030.
Shinde made this statement during a book launch event for Shiv Sena MP Gajanan Chandrakant Kirtikar’s book titled “Shiv Sena, Lokadhikar Aani Mee.”
Highlighting the developmental projects led by various agencies, including MHADA and MMRDA, Shinde emphasized that Central agencies’ involvement aims to enhance infrastructure and elevate Mumbai’s image.
This statement indirectly addressed recent concerns regarding potential interference and separation of Mumbai from Maharashtra.
Shinde also acknowledged past project delays, attributing them to the previous Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) Government’s decisions. He emphasized the cooperation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in this regard, stating that they are not imposing decisions on Maharashtra.
During the event, Shinde praised the contributions of late Sudhir Joshi, the founding president of the “Sthaniya Lokadhikar Samiti Mahasangh (SLSM),” and Kirtikar. The SLSM, established in December 1974, has played a crucial role in securing jobs for local Marathi-speaking individuals in centrally-controlled organizations.
Shinde highlighted Kirtikar’s dedication, including enduring police lathi-charges alongside SLSM workers to champion the rights of locals.
Shinde expressed his deep affiliation with Shiv Sena, following the principles set by the late Balasaheb Thackeray, and emphasized the party’s commitment to preserving its values. He made reference to recent events, highlighting the importance of maintaining these values.
Union Minister Narayan Rane, on the other hand, made allegations against Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of involvement in corrupt practices during his tenure as Maharashtra CM.
Rane cited instances related to the procurement of medicines for Covid-19 patients, recruitment at Hotel Sahara Star, and monetary transactions involving the Shiv Sena-controlled Bharatiya Kamgar Sena.
Rane also claimed that 50 MLAs joined the Eknath Shinde group when the original Shiv Sena underwent a “transformation.”
Kirtikar, in his speech, reflected on his 52-year journey with Shiv Sena and the transformations the party has experienced.
He discussed the need to stay aligned with the path established by Balasaheb Thackeray and emphasized Shinde’s commitment to humanitarianism and “Hindutva.”
The book launch event saw the dedication of Kirtikar’s book to Shiv Sainiks, shedding light on the party’s journey and transformations. Prominent leaders and party members, including MPs and Maharashtra Ministers, attended the event.
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