Shah took aim at Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of betraying the people’s trust by breaking ties with the NDA. Shah emphasized that the BJP’s manifesto is a concrete plan that will be delivered without fail, contrasting it with what he called the MVA’s “appeasement politics.” He also indicated that the decision on Maharashtra’s Chief Minister would be made after the elections, ruling out any chance for Sharad Pawar to lead.
By PC Bureau
A Glimpse of BJP’s Vision for Maharashtra:
Among the key highlights of the manifesto, Shah outlined promises aimed at revolutionizing several sectors of the state, including agriculture, education, technology, and women’s empowerment. Here’s a snapshot of the BJP’s promises:
- Farm Loan Waiver: A major promise to alleviate the burdens of farmers by waiving off loans.
- Ladki Bahin Yojana: Increased financial support under the scheme, with the cap rising to Rs 2,100.
- Cotton and Soybean Farmers: A special focus on the needs of Maharashtra’s vital cotton and soybean farmers.
- Vrudh Pension Yojana: Enhanced pensions for senior citizens, rising from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,100.
- Job Creation: A commitment to generate 25 lakh jobs in Maharashtra.
- Market Stabilization: Market interventions to maintain price stability.
- Technological Leap: A vision document to improve the state’s technology sector within 100 days of the new government’s formation.
- Make-in-India Destination: Plans to position Maharashtra as the most preferred destination for Make-in-India initiatives.
- Focus on Emerging Sectors: Special emphasis on industries like fintech, aeronautics, and space.
- Lakh Pati Didi: A target to create 50 lakh women entrepreneurs by 2027.
- AI Training Labs: Establishment of AI training centers to empower the next generation of tech professionals.
- Skill Census: A statewide survey to map the skills of the population.
- Innovation Ecosystem: The introduction of co-working spaces and incubation centers to support budding entrepreneurs.
- Youth Health Initiatives: Launch of Swami Vivekanand fitness and Arogya cards to promote health among the youth.
- Maharashtra’s Economic Vision: Aspiration for Maharashtra to become the first state to achieve a $1 trillion economy.
- Vikshit Maharashtra: A pledge to develop Maharashtra on the lines of a ‘Vikshit Bharat’ (Developed India).
As Shah unveiled the ambitious manifesto, he underscored the party’s unshakable commitment to delivering on these promises. He specifically praised the focus on women and farmers, emphasizing that these promises are not just lofty ideals but commitments “set in stone.”
A Message to Uddhav Thackeray:
In a bold statement, Amit Shah took a pointed jab at Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of disregarding the will of the people by breaking ties with the NDA in 2019. “For the greed of power, the mandate was disregarded,” Shah remarked, referring to Thackeray’s split from the BJP-led alliance. According to Shah, the BJP’s guarantees are non-negotiable, contrasting them with the “appeasement politics” of the MVA coalition. He went on to claim that the BJP’s promises are “Patthar Ki Lakeer” (etched in stone), and are not prone to change or political maneuvering.
In a scathing criticism, Shah reminded Thackeray of the company he now keeps—those who oppose the Ram Mandir, the abrogation of Article 370, and even undermine the legacy of icons like Veer Savarkar. “Uddhav, where you sit, you have to decide. You are sitting with those who oppose the removal of Article 370, and who abuse Savarkar,” he remarked.
On Maharashtra’s Future Leadership:
When asked about the BJP’s choice for the Chief Minister’s position post-election, Shah remained non-committal, emphasizing that the party would make that decision after the results are in. However, he reassured that the party would not give “Sharad Pawar a chance” at the helm. “We have Eknath Shinde as our CM now and will decide on the CM face after the elections,” Shah added firmly.
The BJP’s manifesto, packed with promises aimed at reshaping Maharashtra’s economic and social landscape, has already set the tone for a high-stakes election. As the countdown to the Maharashtra Assembly polls begins, the party’s focus on jobs, technological advancements, and socio-economic reforms will undoubtedly become a central talking point in the coming weeks.
