"There are hundreds of major, medium and minor irrigation projects that are awaiting completion. We need at least Rs 75,000 crore to complete these projects. There is a need to consult experts and prioritise the ongoing projects," he maintained.
The Governor was speaking after inaugurating a two-day symposium, `Maharashtra - Past, Present and Future' - organised here to mark the birth centenary of Maharashtra's first Chief Minister Y B Chavan.
Sankaranarayanan said he has asked the State Government to complete the ongoing irrigation projects so that their benefits accrues to the people.
"Unless we address this issue on a war footing, we could be heading for a severe water crisis," he warned.
According to the Governor, while Maharashtra can certainly take pride in its improving Human Development Indices, the state cannot afford to remain complacent.
He there are still many pockets of under-development in Maharashtra, where currently 15 districts are facing drought.
"We have even malnutrition cases in some districts. I am glad the Government is committed to make every village malnutrition-free. We want development to be inclusive and comprehensive."
The Governor, who is also Chancellor of universities in the State, said he was interested in promoting access to and excellence in higher education. (more)
