For CM Deshmukh, only power matters

At a time when the state is reeling under a severe power shortage, it is only  power that matters for Chief Minister of Maharashtra Vilasrao Deshmukh. That is why when a Sinagpore delegation came calling talking about investment in constructing airports, cargo services and housing, the Chief Minister briefed them about the need of investment in power sector.

The delegation was led by Transport Minister Raymond Lim. Deshmukh told the delegation, which consisted six officials from various departments of the Singapore government, that his government was ready with every required facility if the Singapore government came up with the energy-generation proposals.

“Maharashtra is emerging as the key region for investments in the construction of roads, ports, metro railway and housing. The companies coming up with the proposals of the joint projects are facilitated with the single-window facility for clearances,” Deshmukh said.

VK Jairath, principal secretary, industry department, made a presentation about the industrial growth and infrastructural facilities in the state. “Infrastructure facilities and skilled manpower available has led big companies like LG, General Motors to invest in the state. Bigger avenues are opening up in the state in the wake of Special Economic Zones being implemented. The industrial policy of the state government has been instrumental in bringing in foreign investment,” he said.

An official from industry department said, “It is only a primary meeting between officials of two government and one can’t expect much out of it at this stage.”