Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde highlights importance of local products promotion

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, alongside Governor Ramesh Bais, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Union Minister Narayan Rane, and Skill Development Minister Mangalprabhat Lodha, presided over the inauguration ceremony of various railway projects, including the 'Ahmedabad-Mumbai Vande Bharat Express'. The event, held at Mumbai Central station, marked a significant step towards modernizing the Indian Railways and fostering national development.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the continued progress of the country through various schemes, with projects worth over 85 thousand crores being initiated or dedicated to the nation. He highlighted the significance of modernizing railways and ensuring its accessibility to every corner of India.

Chief Minister Shinde lauded the transformative impact of railways on the lives of ordinary citizens, hailing it as a lifeline for millions. He emphasized the rapid expansion of railway networks and the promotion of local artisans' products through initiatives like the One Station One Product Scheme and Ekta Mall. Shinde expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Modi for launching schemes beneficial to the state's development.

Union Minister Rane expressed confidence in India's trajectory towards becoming a developed nation by 2047, attributing its progress to its pivotal role on the global stage.

Minister Lodha commended the collaborative efforts of Governor Bais and Chief Minister Shinde in prioritizing the welfare of common people. He underscored the significance of railways in enhancing accessibility and facilitating economic opportunities for Mumbai and Maharashtra residents.

The establishment of Ekta Mall in Navi Mumbai's Ulwe, as announced by Chief Minister Shinde, aims to promote national integration and support rural artisans by showcasing their products. The mall, spearheaded by CIDCO, will serve as a platform for 'Make in India' initiatives and the District One Product (ODOP) concept, showcasing the cultural diversity of all states and union territories.

A total of 506 projects, including the inauguration of Vande Bharat Express and various railway infrastructure enhancements, were launched during the ceremony. Divisional Railway Manager Neeraj Verma revealed that the Vande Bharat Express will operate six days a week on the Ahmedabad-Mumbai route.