Eknath Shinde Enjoys Vada Pav in London
Maharashtra Deputy CM savours vada pav, meets investors and diaspora

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde concluded his two-day UK visit on Friday, combining an investor outreach programme with a touch of home as he enjoyed the quintessential Maharashtrian vada pav on the streets of London.
Shinde was seen savouring the snack along with a chilli, accompanied by Sena Leader Rahool Kanal. A video of the incident has gone viral on social media.
The Shiv Sena leader also raised the slogan of 'Jai Maharashtra' at the British Parliament and interacted with members of the Marathi diaspora during his visit. He delivered speeches in English at investor meetings and the House of Commons, where he outlined Maharashtra’s ambition of becoming a USD 1 trillion economy by 2030.
Shinde's UK visit primarily focused on attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) to Maharashtra and strengthening economic ties with Britain, particularly in the wake of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement. He invited British industrialists and investors to explore opportunities in Maharashtra, citing the state’s large market, skilled workforce and infrastructure capabilities.
The Deputy Chief Minister stressed the importance of coordination with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in achieving the state’s growth targets. He concluded the visit by appealing to British investors to bring technology, green capital and investments to Maharashtra.
During the tour, Shinde received the Commonwealth Public Leadership recognition at the House of Lords and the Statesmanship Award at the House of Commons. He was also honoured with the Global Pride of Maharashtra award by Maharashtra Mandal London during a gathering of the Marathi diaspora.
Shinde also met with Indian cricketer Virat Kohli in London, discussing sports and Maharashtra development. The meeting highlighted the Deputy Chief Minister's focus on promoting sports in the state.
The visit was seen as a significant step towards promoting Maharashtra as a investment destination and strengthening ties with the UK. Shinde's efforts to attract FDI and promote the state's economic growth are expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy.
In the context of Maharashtra's economic growth, Shinde's visit to the UK is a significant development. The state has been actively promoting itself as a investment destination, with a focus on attracting FDI and promoting economic growth. The visit is expected to help achieve the state's growth targets and promote economic development.
The visit also highlights the importance of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement in promoting economic ties between the two countries. The agreement is expected to increase trade and investment between India and the UK, and Shinde's visit is seen as a significant step towards promoting Maharashtra as a key investment destination.
In conclusion, Eknath Shinde's visit to the UK was a significant development in promoting Maharashtra as a investment destination and strengthening economic ties with the UK. The visit is expected to have a positive impact on the state's economy and promote economic growth.
Frequently asked questions
What was the purpose of Eknath Shinde's UK visit?
The purpose of the visit was to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to Maharashtra and strengthen economic ties with the UK.
What awards did Eknath Shinde receive during his UK visit?
Shinde received the Commonwealth Public Leadership recognition, the Statesmanship Award, and the Global Pride of Maharashtra award.