Maharashtra is on course to become India’s first trillion-dollar sub-national economy in the coming years, driven by sustained industrial expansion, infrastructure development and increased adoption of emerging technologies, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Tuesday, reported news agency PTI.
Fadnavis made the remarks during an on-stage conversation with actor Aamir Khan at the ‘Lokmat Maharashtrian of the Year Awards 2026’ organised by Lokmat Media Group at the Gateway of India.
Maharashtra among largest regional economies
Highlighting the state’s economic progress, Fadnavis said Maharashtra already holds the position of India’s largest sub-national economy and continues to strengthen its global economic footprint, reported PTI.
“If Maharashtra were an independent country, it would rank among the world’s top 30 economies. With sustained growth momentum, Maharashtra is on track to become India’s first trillion-dollar sub-national economy in the coming years,” the chief minister said, reported PTI.
He attributed the state’s growth trajectory to industrial development, large-scale infrastructure projects and technological innovation across multiple sectors.
No plan to ban social media for under-16 users
Fadnavis also addressed concerns regarding the growing influence of social media on younger users, stating that although the issue is being closely monitored, the government currently has no plans to introduce a law banning social media usage for individuals under the age of 16, reported PTI.
He noted that the rapid growth of social media platforms has created new governance challenges, particularly due to algorithm-driven systems designed to maximise user engagement.
“Most social media platforms rely heavily on AI-driven algorithms designed to maximise engagement, which has significantly reduced attention spans, especially among children. Protecting young minds from this challenge is important,” he said, reported PTI.
The chief minister added that while no legal restrictions are currently being considered, the government is studying the issue and may introduce appropriate measures if necessary.
AI revolution brings opportunities and challenges
Speaking about technological advancements, Fadnavis said the rise of artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and challenges for governance, public administration and economic growth.
“The wave of AI is unstoppable, and we must proactively prepare ourselves for it,” he said, reported PTI.
As an example, he highlighted the Mahavistaar platform, an AI-enabled application that provides real-time agricultural insights to farmers in regional languages.
According to the chief minister, nearly three million farmers are currently using the platform to access information related to crop management and agricultural practices.
Focus on climate resilience and renewable energy
Fadnavis also emphasised the state government’s commitment to sustainable development and climate resilience.
He said Maharashtra has set an ambitious target of planting three billion trees over the next seven years as part of environmental conservation efforts.
Additionally, the government plans to provide 16,000 megawatts of solar power to farmers to support agricultural activities while promoting renewable energy adoption.
(With inputs from PTI)
