Mumbai, Correspondent
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis mocked Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) leader Aaditya Thackeray, saying that he sincerely hopes Aaditya does not turn into “Maharashtra’s Pappu” by imitating Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi. Fadnavis said this while addressing the media after the state cabinet meeting.
“We know Aaditya Thackeray well, and I expect him not to indulge in such ‘Pappugiri’. His allegations of vote tampering are baseless — like ‘digging a mountain only to find a mouse’. The Election Commission has already responded to his accusations multiple times,” Fadnavis said.
He further remarked that the opposition alliance (MVA) already knows they will lose the upcoming local body elections. “That’s why they are preparing excuses in advance by alleging vote theft,” he added.
Fadnavis announced several cabinet decisions as well:
Farmer Relief: ₹8,000 crore had already been disbursed to farmers affected by heavy rains, and an additional ₹11,000 crore has now been sanctioned. Within the next 15–20 days, 90% of affected farmers will receive funds directly into their bank accounts.
Crop Procurement: To prevent exploitation of farmers by traders, the state has started registering farmers who sell their produce at procurement centers. Only registered farmers’ produce will be purchased to ensure fair prices.
Rail Project: The cabinet approved the revised plan for the Solapur–Tuljapur–Dharashiv railway line, costing ₹3,295 crore — shared equally between the state and central governments. The project will boost connectivity and religious tourism in Pandharpur and Tuljapur.
Vision 2047 Plan: Prepared after consultations with over seven lakh citizens, this long-term development plan outlines goals for 2030, 2035, and 2047, and has received cabinet approval.
Vasantdada Sugar Institute Issue: Fadnavis clarified that no inquiry has been initiated against the institute. “We have merely sought details on how the ₹1 per ton sugarcane levy is being used. Some people like to portray themselves as martyrs for no reason,” he quipped.
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