Mumbai: In a significant development for Mumbai's future, the NITI Aayog has presented its comprehensive report to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, outlining a bold vision to transform Mumbai and its surrounding areas into a global financial powerhouse. The report details a strategic plan aimed at doubling Mumbai's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) within the next five years.

The key highlights of the NITI Aayog's report include ambitious targets for economic growth and job creation. The study projects that by 2030, the GDP of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) will reach Rs. 26 lakh crore (approximately $300 billion), a substantial increase from the current Rs. 12 lakh crore. This growth will be driven by a focus on seven critical sectors identified in the report.

During a meeting attended by top officials including Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, NITI Aayog Chief Executive Officer B. V. R. Subramaniam emphasized the transformative potential of the plan. The presentation highlighted the need for robust investment in infrastructure, job creation, and economic development to achieve these ambitious goals.

The NITI Aayog's strategy revolves around several core areas:

1. Economic Growth: Targeting the expansion of Mumbai's GDP to Rs. 26 lakh crore by 2030 through concentrated efforts in key sectors.

2. Job Creation: Aiming to add approximately 30 lakh new jobs to Mumbai’s existing workforce of 1 crore.

3. Investment: Encouraging private sector investments between Rs. 10-11 lakh crore to drive growth.

4. Sector Focus: Development efforts will concentrate on infrastructure, affordable housing, global services, tourism, and logistics.

Chief Minister Shinde underscored the importance of leveraging Mumbai's potential, stating, “NITI Aayog’s plan for integrated development harnesses the opportunities within Mumbai’s metropolitan area. We are accelerating initiatives such as the construction of affordable housing, job generation, and critical infrastructure projects like the Alibaug Multimodal Corridor”.

The report also emphasizes the need to enhance Mumbai’s status as a global financial hub, foster sustainable development, and improve urban infrastructure. Specific projects include prioritizing data centers in Navi Mumbai and utilizing Maharashtra’s 720 km coastline to boost tourism.

The meeting also featured presentations from other key stakeholders, including Mumbai Municipal Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and various state officials, who discussed ongoing and upcoming projects aligned with the NITI Aayog’s vision.

As Maharashtra moves forward with these ambitious plans, the collaborative efforts between state leadership and national planning bodies aim to solidify Mumbai's position as a leading global economic center, stated Cm Shinde.