Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan shares the stage with dignitaries at the Indian Merchant's Chamber in Mumbai
Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan today unveiled a host of measures to tackle the grim economic scenario in the state, while warning against a fractured mandate in the Lok Sabha elections, which, he said, will impact India's growth story.
Speaking at the 107th foundation day of the Indian Merchant's Chamber in Mumbai, the Chief Minister announced a slew of measures for the agricultural and the industrial sectors.
He outlined policies of giving Rs 25,000 to those who bought new autos and Rs 1 lakh to those who bought new taxis to phase out their old vehicles. He said this would not only help the environment but also help the automobile industry.
Mr Chavan said education, infrastructure, irrigation and bringing out a human development report for the state were amongst his top priorities.
Speaking about the major Navi Mumbai Airport project that has been delayed due to land acquisition problems, Mr Chavan announced a new policy. He said the farmers, from whom the land is acquired, will be given 22 per cent developed land, instead of cash compensation.
"There will be no cash compensation as the money asked is so high that the project becomes unviable," he said.
Replying to a question on the issue of women's safety, the Chief Minister said the government had made a decision to increase police personnel.
"We employ 33 per cent women police personnel. I appeal to citizens to report crimes against women. The outrage in Mumbai and Delhi have emboldened people to come out and report crimes against women. The criminals in the recent case have been caught, we have employed the best public prosecutor and the culprits will be punished as fast as possible so that it acts as a deterrent," he said.