State’s industrial development skewed: Chavan to corporates

Terming the investment by M&M of Rs 5,000 crore as ‘significant’ he said it shows Maharashtra was still the most favoured industrial destination in the country. “People have been talking about industry going out of the state. But the Mahindra group’s decision to start this plant here has once again proved that Maharashtra remains the most favourite industrial destination,” Chavan said.

He cited the proximity of Pune to Mumbai and work done by local administration as reasons for major investments taking place in the region.

“Companies have to focus on agro-business as well so that the places that are not seeing industrial development in the state will be on par with other regions,” he said. Speaking on the Women’s Reservation Bill,Chavan said the state has accepted it but is working towards making amendments in the bill. “There should be higher women representation in the manufacturing sector a well as in the information technology sector and this has to be ensured,” he said.

The Chief minister also urged industry captains to ensure that 80 per cent of all jobs be given to local population. Sachin Ahir,minister of state for environment,MP Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil,and MLA’s Dilip Mohite Patil,Vilas Lande, Anand Mahindra,vice chairman and managing director,Mahindra Group and Pawan Goenka,president,automotive sector,Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd were also present.