Maharashtra has emerged as economic engine of India: Governor

Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao Wednesday said the state is the economic engine of the country and has played a significant role in development of its infrastructure.

Rao appealed to the citizens to join hands in building a new and vibrant Maharashtra.

The governor was addressing a gathering after hoisting the tricolour and inspecting the ceremonial parade at Shivaji Park in Central Mumbai on the occasion of the 59th anniversary of the formation of the State of Maharashtra.

Rao said Maharashtra has traditionally enjoyed geographical advantage in terms of industrial development.

The state has maintained its position as one of the most attractive destinations for domestic as well as foreign investment, he said.

"The state is the economic engine of the nation and has played a significant role in the countrys infrastructural development.

"Maharashtra is also a leading state in the country in terms of agriculture, industrial production, trade and transport," the governor said.

"As a result, Maharashtra remains one of the most developed and prosperous states in the country," he said.

The contribution of Mumbai in making Maharashtra the No.1 state in the country cannot be overstated, Rao said.

The metropolis houses the headquarters of most of the banks, corporate and financial institutions and is also home to India's largest stock exchange, and the world famous film industry, he added.

The governor said Mumbai, home to India's most important ports, handles an enormous foreign trade.

Besides Mumbai, some other cities have also emerged as centres of growth and excellence, he said.

"It (Mumbai) is a hub of manufacturing, finance and service sector. Pune has emerged as an IT and automobile hub of the country. Nagpur, Kolhapur and Solapur are other dynamic centres of growth and development," Rao added.

Maharashtra is leading in the implementation of cyber security and creating a safe cyber space for citizens and businesses, he said.

"The biggest strength of our state is its people who are industrious, progressive, pragmatic and hard working. I am confident that Maharashtra will continue its march towards peace, progress and inclusive development," he said.

"I appeal to the citizens to join hands in building a new and vibrant Maharashtra," the governor said and greeted the people of the state on the occasion of Maharashtra Day.

The governor paid tributes to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the formation of the state.

On the occasion of International Labour Day, which is also celebrated on May 1, Rao congratulated workers for their contribution in building Maharashtra and the nation.