05 December,2025 03:54 PM IST | Mumbai | Sanjeev Shivadekar
CM Fadnavis said equality should not be limited only to traditional social reservations. Pic/Special Arrangement
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday met orphaned youth and called the reservation for orphans decision 'deeply heart-touching' for him.
He said that the decision to grant reservation for orphaned children is one of the most emotionally fulfilling decisions of his life.
CM Fadnavis was speaking at Varsha, his official residence in Mumbai, during an interaction with orphaned young people who have secured government jobs through the 1 per cent orphan reservation policy.
The Chief Minister said the policy was inspired by Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar's principle of equality of opportunity. He added that he feels proud that 862 orphaned young men and women have now become independent and are contributing to society.
Marking one year since taking oath as Chief Minister, Fadnavis said the anniversary began with a meaningful and heart-warming programme. He noted that some decisions taken in government bring deep emotional satisfaction, and the decision to grant reservation to orphans is one of them.
He said that equality should not be limited only to traditional social reservations.
"Orphans, persons with disabilities, and other deprived groups also deserve opportunities," he said, adding that the 1 per cent quota has brought real change to many lives.
He encouraged the youth present to become role models for society.
"Whatever we achieve is possible because of the systems created by society - schools, institutions, government, and industries. So, giving back to society is everyone's responsibility," he said.
He urged the young achievers not to stop after reaching their goals and to continue working for the greater good.
"A person lives on through their work. Let your work become your identity," he added.
The programme included an emotional moment when a young beneficiary, Vinayak Vishwakarma, recited a poem expressing gratitude towards the Chief Minister, saying, "I haven't come to take anything today, but to give thanks. Your reservation pulled me out of poverty. You may be the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, but for us you are like an elder brother."
CM Fadnavis praised the youth, saying the poem reflected genuine gratitude and showed the true impact of the government's decision.
During the interaction, several young beneficiaries also shared their stories and thanked the government, saying the reservation had given them access to education, employment, and a dignified life.
