‘Many feel I should go to Delhi, but…’: Fadnavis clarifies why he met PM Modi
Devendra Fadnavis invited PM Modi to inaugurate Pune Metro 3, and is believed to have discussed the possible expansion of the union and Maharashtra cabinets.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi on Monday, dispelling rumors that he intended to relocate to national politics. Fadnavis emphasized his ongoing commitment to serving the state, stating that the people of Maharashtra and Modi had entrusted him with the responsibility of governing Mumbai.
During his visit, Fadnavis invited Modi to inaugurate Pune Metro 3 and discussed the expansion of cabinet projects between the union and Maharashtra governments. He met with various union ministers to address state projects aided by the central government. Before heading to Delhi, Fadnavis visited a temple in Ujjain the previous day.
His trip prompted speculation about his potential inclusion in the union cabinet following the proposed expansion. Fadnavis clarified that those who enjoyed "kite-flying" could continue, assuring that he would remain in Mumbai. The discussions with Modi covered state politics, including the ongoing Supreme Court case related to the Shiv Sena anti-defection case, which might impact state politics.
Fadnavis also shared updates on state projects with finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman, environment minister Bhupendra Yadav, and commerce and industries minister Piyush Goyal. He briefed them on the status of ongoing projects and detailed expectations from the Centre. Fadnavis highlighted the development of an industrial area at Shendra-Bidkin under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, requesting the Centre's participation in land acquisition.
The Centre's proposal for an industrial corridor along the Delhi-Nagpur corridor was also discussed, with 6,000 acres of land already acquired at Saoner and another 6,000 acres at Dighi. Infrastructure funding has been provided, and work has commenced. Pending environmental and forest clearances for projects were another key point of discussion, with assurances that they would be expedited.
Fadnavis also explored the possibility of involving another multinational agency alongside JICA for the ₹55,000-crore Uttan-Virar corridor, which aims to provide direct connectivity with Vadhvan Port.
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