Political Economy of Maharashtra and Globalisation

Abstract

Tracking the analytical political economy of Maharashtra presents a challenge as it is a progressive and historically active state. The state emerged as an amalgamation of different regions with distinct production relations and economic foundations. It was formed 13 years after independence and soon earned a position as the country's t industrially advanced state. Over the last
six decades, the state has had 24 Chief Ministers, with an average tenure of approximately 2.6 years. As a result, it is muddled with various issues and disturbing the path of development. Here, we aim to address issues related to the impact of globalisation in the context of the changing political economy of the state. We noted that the performance of the agricultural sector is of great concern, with a trend towards the intense commercialisation of crops. The area under cultivation is shrinking, with slow growth in irrigation and continued neglect of vast, rain-fed, drought-prone areas. Suicides by farmers have not been controlled effectively. The area under food grains is shrinking, and per capita food grain availability is worrisome. The polity and the state are more
concerned with inconsequential issues and their political squabbles. A longterm development strategy is needed, especially for the agricultural sector.