Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has raised serious concerns over the threat climate change poses to the state’s economy, describing it as the issue that causes him the most worry. Speaking at the India Global Forum in Mumbai on Tuesday, Fadnavis emphasized that the state’s largely agrarian economy is highly vulnerable to climate shifts.
“Maharashtra is an agrarian state, and agriculture is the first sector to be hit by climate change,” Fadnavis said. “That’s why we have shifted our focus to climate-resilient agriculture. We are collaborating with the World Bank on various projects to ensure our farming practices can withstand the impacts of climate variability. Our mission includes using artificial intelligence in agriculture to enhance predictability and reduce dependence on erratic weather patterns.”
Fadnavis admitted that the unpredictable nature of agriculture, heavily tied to environmental conditions, is a constant concern. “This is what keeps me up at night,” he added.
Addressing concerns about the ongoing US tariff war and its possible impact on Maharashtra’s economy, the Chief Minister said the state had been consulting experts and analyzing sector-wise implications. “The impact on Maharashtra has been moderate so far. In fact, in some sectors such as textiles and apparels, new opportunities are emerging. We don’t see this causing any major disruption,” he explained.
On the economic front, Fadnavis assured that the state’s financial health remains robust. Highlighting Maharashtra’s strong performance in attracting foreign investments, he noted, “In the recent quarters, Maharashtra’s share of India’s total FDI was 40%, 45%, and 50%. Cumulatively, our share stands at 35%. Historically, we’ve seen phases where nearly half of India’s FDI came into Maharashtra, and we aim to sustain that momentum.”
He also provided an update on industrial development, stating that 85% of the Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed by the state government are being successfully implemented. The government is actively working to expedite the remaining 15% by providing necessary infrastructure, land, and clearances.
Turning to infrastructure development, Fadnavis said Mumbai is undergoing a significant transformation. “With projects like the extension of the coastal road up to Virar and the Virar-Alibaug multimodal corridor, we are not just decongesting traffic but also building a more connected and modern Mumbai,” he said. “We are developing what can be called a third Mumbai around the new airport, creating a vibrant urban hub.”
The Chief Minister’s comments reflect a strategic focus on sustainability, investment, and infrastructure as Maharashtra aims to secure its economic future amid global uncertainties and environmental challenges.
