AMRAVATI: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s Maha Janadesh Yatra from Mozari near Amravati in Vidarbha as the CM claimed he was seeking the blessings of people based on the work done by his government.
Embarking on his state-wide tour ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, the CM assured people that Maharashtra would be made drought-free.
“The next generation of Maharashtra will not experience drought,” said Fadnavis as he set on a month-long tour during which he will highlight the achievements of his government over past five years.
“Our government has achieved double the results of 15 years of Congress-NCP rule in the state in every sector,” Fadnavis claimed, challenging the opposition to “an open debate” over this statement.
In his 40 minutes long speech, Fadnavis addressed all sections of society, enumerating various government schemes aimed at them.
“I don’t claim everything is okay or all issues are resolved. But, we have regained numero uno position in several areas,” he said.
Recurring drought was a major concern and challenge before the government, he agreed, but hoped that the river-linking projects would help save “each drop of rain”. “And let me assure.... I will not allow the next generation to see drought,” he said, appealing for a repeat mandate.
“We will cross 220,” state BJP president and revenue minister Chandrakant Patil said.
“In fact, some people are telling that it should be 250,” he said. Like Fadnavis, he too did not make any mention of Shiv Sena.
Lauding Fadnavis for winning people’s confidence, Rajnath said he would surely win everybody’s heart with his work if given a second chance. The Union minister also paid tributes to Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray.
During his two-phase Yatra, the CM will travel 4,384 km covering 32 of the state’s 36 districts on a special rath equipped with an LED screen to the highlight achievements of his government.
During the first phase, he will travel across 14 districts covering 57 Assembly constituencies and in the second phase will cover 93 constituencies in 18 districts.
This means he will tour 150 constituencies before the Model Code of Conduct comes into force. During his entire tour, CM will address 114 rallies, some small rallies and meet people in as many as 238 villages en route.
Shiv Sena banks on women voters
Shiv Sena secretary Aadesh Bandekar, who hosts several TV shows that are particularly popular amongst women, is set to kickstart ‘’Mauli (Mother) Samvad Yatra’’ from Dahanu in Palghar district on Friday.
“The better half of our society forms a majority amongst voter groups in many of our constituencies in rural Maharashtra. While Shiv Sena has high regards for women, focusing on them as prospective voters also makes a wise move ahead of election,” said Bandekar.