Message from the Chief Minister

I am glad to learn that Frontline will be publishing a Special Feature on Maharashtra. Maharashtra is the most industrialised State in the country, has the best infrastructure; has evolved pragmatic policies; is the economic powerhouse of the country and a socially progressive State. Ever since the Democratic Front government assumed power in October 1999, it has adopted measures to curtail the expenditure on administration and announced policies on women, population control, development of children and industrial development. This year's budget deserves special mention inasmuch as it provides special inputs for the development of socially deprived and neglected sections. Maharashtra abounds in places of historical interest, caves and temples, rich flora and fauna, mountains and valleys and rivers and has a long coastline, which attract tourists.