The 67th Maharashtra Day is being celebrated across the state with enthusiasm and fervour today. On the occasion, Governor Jishnu Dev Varma unfurled the Tricolour at Mumbai’s Lok Bhavan amid the playing of the National Song, National Anthem and State Song. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis hoisted the National Flag at his official residence, ‘Varsha’ and paid floral tributes to the martyrs of the Sanyukta Maharashtra Movement at Hutatma Smarak.

 

Speaking to the media, Mr Fadnavis hailed Maharashtra as India’s powerhouse and growth engine. Commenting on the Marathi language row, he reiterated that anyone residing in Maharashtra has to learn Marathi, but violence in the name of Marathi will not be tolerated.

 

The Chief Minister also released a video address to the citizens of the state on the occasion. Mr Fadnavis termed the Day not only as an occasion for celebration, but also for introspection. Against the backdrop of a below-average rainfall forecast this Kharif season, he appealed to farmers not to rush into sowing and to pay close attention to the instructions issued by the Agriculture Department.

 

Highlighting various government schemes for different sections of society, he emphasised the need to take a cumulative review of Maharashtra’s developmental journey on this occasion.

 

Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar and guardian ministers in various districts also celebrated Maharashtra Day by hoisting the flag in their respective regions.