Opens New Doors of Cooperation in Multiple Sectors

 Maharashtra–Iowa (USA) Partnership

Opens New Doors of Cooperation in Multiple Sectors

- CM Devendra Fadnavis

 

Mumbai, Sept 12: Maharashtra has signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the U.S. state of Iowa, paving the way for collaboration in agriculture, biotechnology, financial services, infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced that this partnership will create new opportunities for innovation and exchange between the two states.

Key Areas of Cooperation:

Growth in investment and economic exchanges

Collaboration in agriculture, food processing, healthcare, tourism, sports, and renewable energy

Academic and research linkages between universities and institutions

The MoU was signed in the presence of Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis and Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds at the Taj Palace Hotel, Mumbai. The event was also attended by Chief Secretary Rajesh Kumar, Additional Chief Secretary for Higher and Technical Education Venugopal Reddy, Principal Secretary to the CM Ashwini Bhide, Nanaji Krishi Sanjivani Project Director Parimal Singh, Investment Advisor to the CM Kaustubh Dhavse, and from Iowa, Agriculture Secretary Mike Naig, Development Authority Director Debi Durham, along with other dignitaries.

Speaking at the press conference, CM Fadnavis said, “Iowa is a leading state in agricultural production and agri-technology. This partnership offers Maharashtra a tremendous opportunity in agriculture, technology, and industry. Advanced technologies in AI-driven farming, digitization, healthcare, vocational training, biotechnology, renewable energy, and infrastructure will be introduced to Maharashtra through joint initiatives with Iowa universities and institutions.”

The CM further noted that India’s remarkable progress in renewable energy will gain new momentum through this cooperation. He added, “Maharashtra has previously signed sister-state agreements with Japan and Germany, which boosted trade, industry, and cultural exchanges. This is the first such agreement with a U.S. state, and it will strengthen India–U.S. relations.” Both sides have agreed on regular delegation visits to enhance collaboration.