CRIME BORDER | 01 March 2026 | 05:59 PM
Mumbai, March 1: The world today faces the dual challenge of ensuring environmental conservation while progressing amid the climate change crisis. Maharashtra, too, is addressing climate change while continuing on its path of development. There are numerous opportunities for Canada to invest in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said, inviting Canadian educational institutions and entrepreneurs to explore investment prospects in the state.
He was speaking at a welcome reception organised at Taj Palace Hotel for Canada’s Minister of National Revenue François-Philippe Champagne, Premier of New Brunswick Susan Holt, and members of the Canadian delegation.
Minister of State for Protocol Jaykumar Rawal, Chief Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, Municipal Commissioner of Brihanmumbai Bhushan Gagrani, Managing Director of City and Industrial Development Corporation (CIDCO) Vijay Singhal, the Chief Minister’s Investment Advisor Kaustubh Dhavse, Additional Chief Secretary (Higher and Technical Education) Venugopal Reddy, Industries Secretary P Anbalagan, and other senior officials were present on the occasion.
Focus on Infrastructure and Education
The Chief Minister said that large-scale infrastructure projects are underway in the state. Mumbai has received a second international airport — the Navi Mumbai International Airport — which is expected to unlock significant development opportunities in the region. An international ‘EduCity’ is also being developed in Navi Mumbai, where reputed global universities will establish campuses. So far, five universities have been issued Letters of Intent. The government is working to provide world-class infrastructure to these institutions.
He noted that nearly 60 per cent of Maharashtra’s population is below the age of 27. A large number of students from the state pursue higher education in Canada. Therefore, Canadian universities should establish campuses in Navi Mumbai’s upcoming EduCity.
Cooperation in Technology and Innovation
Canada has made remarkable progress in artificial intelligence, advanced technology, and environmental conservation, with strong institutional support from its government. On similar lines, the Maharashtra government is working in areas such as data centres, Global Capability Centres, and startups to shape the future of the state.
Recently, the state organised a successful conference on the use of artificial intelligence in agriculture. AI is being increasingly deployed to enhance agricultural productivity. Farmers in Maharashtra are being brought onto a digital platform through the AgriStack initiative, and the state is implementing the ‘Mahavistar’ programme to strengthen agricultural outreach.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has undergone significant transformation over the past decade, and Maharashtra is no exception, the Chief Minister added.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The visit of the Canadian delegation to India and this event in Mumbai mark a new beginning in bilateral relations. The Chief Minister invited Canada to continue strengthening ties with India and Maharashtra in the future.
On the occasion, Canada’s Minister of National Revenue François-Philippe Champagne highlighted the long-standing history of bilateral relations between India and Canada and expressed confidence that cooperation would continue to deepen. Premier Susan Holt spoke about collaboration and ties between Maharashtra and New Brunswick.
Industries Secretary P. Anbalagan made a presentation on the state’s industrial policy and ease of doing business initiatives. Additional Metropolitan Commissioner Vikram Kumar from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) presented details of ongoing infrastructure projects in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. CIDCO Managing Director Vijay Singhal presented information about Navi Mumbai International Airport, EduCity, MediCity, AeroCity, and the International Trade Centre at Kharghar. Additional Chief Secretary Venugopal Reddy spoke about infrastructure being developed for foreign universities and the status of higher education in the state.
A short film showcasing Maharashtra’s developmental transformation was screened by the Mitra Institution.
The programme was anchored by Kaustubh Dhavse. Representatives from the Canadian delegation, universities, CEOs of Indian companies, entrepreneurs, and senior government officials attended the event.