GG News Bureau
Maharashtra 21st January : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has underlined the strategic importance of the World Economic Forum’s annual meeting at Davos, calling it indispensable for India and its states to remain relevant in a rapidly evolving global and geopolitical landscape.
Speaking on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026, Fadnavis said Davos is not merely a networking event but a platform where countries and states align themselves with global shifts in innovation, technology, and business models.
India’s global presence and federal spirit
Fadnavis highlighted that India’s participation at Davos has grown stronger and more structured over the years. He pointed out that the presence of ten Indian states at the summit reflects the spirit of cooperative and competitive federalism encouraged by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
According to him, Indian states are no longer passive participants but active global stakeholders, presenting their individual strengths while contributing to India’s broader economic narrative.
Why Davos matters in a connected economy
Emphasising the relevance of international platforms, the Chief Minister said that in a connected global economy, staying away from forums like Davos risks isolation from fast-changing business and technology trends.
He noted that Davos allows governments to understand emerging global business processes, technological disruptions, and innovation cycles—knowledge that can be translated into policy and investment frameworks back home.
Investment opportunities and Maharashtra’s focus
Fadnavis said the WEF provides tangible economic outcomes, not just discussions. When global businesses connect at Davos, investment decisions often follow.
For Maharashtra, he said the focus this year is on large-scale and strategic collaborations rather than symbolic engagements. The state is positioning itself as a hub for advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, technology-driven industries, and clean energy partnerships.
WEF 2026: Scale and significance
The 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum is being held from January 19 to 23, 2026, in Davos-Klosters. Nearly 3,000 participants from over 130 countries are attending, including a record number of world leaders, CEOs, innovators, and policymakers.
The theme for this year, “A Spirit of Dialogue,” underscores the emphasis on cooperation amid global economic uncertainty and geopolitical tensions.
India’s clean energy pitch
India is also using the platform to reinforce its position as one of the world’s fastest-growing renewable energy markets. Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy Pralhad Joshi has urged global investors at Davos to partner with India in its rapid clean energy expansion.
Together, these engagements signal India’s intent to remain an influential voice in global economic and geopolitical conversations—an objective Fadnavis says is impossible without a strong presence at Davos.
