The World Hindu Economic Forum (WHEF) brings together traders, bankers, technocrats, investors, industrialists, business persons, professionals, along with economists and thinkers to share their expertise with the community

While addressing the attendees at the forum, Fadnavis highlighted Mumbai's role as the economic capital and outlined Maharashtra's aspirations to become the fintech hub of the country

Fadnavis also emphasised India's rapid strides towards becoming a developed country, crediting visionary leadership and inclusive growth as key drivers

The Maharastra Chief Minister lauded the country's progress, attributing it to a blend of cultural values and visionary leadership

Fadnavis drew a sharp contrast between Western and Hindu cultural philosophies, stating, "In the West, they follow the principle of 'survival of the fittest.' However, in our Hindu culture, we believe in supporting every individual, ensuring no one is left behind. This principle defines our inclusive growth"

He credited the late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for laying the foundation of India's developmental agenda, which has been further advanced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Goa CM Pramod Sawant also addressed the forum in Mumbai

Later, he visited the Manohar Parrikar Memorial in Miramar to pay his respect to the Goa CM and minister of defence on his 69th birth anniversary

The forum, which will conclude on Sunday, will witness several keynote speakers over three days,  at Jio World Convention Centre

The forum was first organised in 2012 at Hong Kong. Last year, it was held in Bangkok. Mumbai is hosting the event for the second time after 2019