'Don'T Worry, Maharashtra'S Future Is Bright' Deputy Chief

On why the state is slipping in terms of social infrastructure and investments.

Mumbai has centuries-old history, and you cannot compare it with other state's. It lagged behind in the last few years, but soon it will overtake other states in every aspect. It will lead in development. In power, we are generating, 5000 MW energy which no other state is doing. Only Maharashtra can offer better infrastructure because for continuous-process industries, we are the only ones who can give continuous electricity.

On self-contained townships It is the most important concept that is being implemented only in my state. It is essential if you want to be one with the world. It helps us in globalisation. Our efforts are to offer all kinds of facilities under one roof. If this idea clicks, we will have no problems in attracting investments. Don't worry, the future of Maharashtra is extremely bright.

 

On allegations of complacency I don't know what kind of industrialists are making such allegations. We have never been more aggressive than now. We are doing everything to woo industry. In two months, we will be having an NRI conference in Mumbai. We are also involving industrialists in a lot of decision making.

On the difference between this government's policies and the earlier one

The Congress government ruled for many years, their thinking was stagnant. We are young, so we have new ideas and enough josh and we are ready to work hard. The earlier government might have had good policies but there was no implementation. That's because law and order was not good. Because of the bomb blast, investors were thinking twice about coming to the state. Now there is peace

On the importance of incentives.

The incentives are going to be there only till the year 2000. After that there will be no subsidies for the industry. The government wants parity between states. That is why, we are building these industrial estates, to attract investment. That is why there is competition among the states.