In the field of
education, Maharashtra has been a pioneer for almost a century, with leaders Gokhale, Tilak and Phule having set up their own institutions. This tradition has
been followed, generation, with the results that there are hundreds of schools
and collages belonging to different communities managed by their own societies
and trusts.
The state government
has not only encouraged but also helped these activities. A part from making
primary education compulsory, and establishing thousands of schools for this
purpose, it has introduced one of the boldest and most imaginative schemes in
taking education to the masses; it pays from its own funds the fees, right up
to the university level, of all boys and girls, the annual income of whose
parents is less than Rs 18oo.
Some bold experiments
in helping agriculturists with modern, technical knowledge about the latest
methods of cultivation and with timely and adequate supply of fertilizers,
seeds, credit and guaranteed market for their produce are being undertaken,
particularly in regard to food grains and cotton.
Another significant
development has been the emphasis on agricultural education; to promote it
effectively four agricultural universities have been established in the four
different regions.
As Bombay is such a
fine port, it is great centre for export and import trade, and the seat of many
great mercantile firms and shipping businesses. It is also a great
manufacturing centre, and is noted especially for its cotton mills. It also has
dye works, tanneries, and shops of metal work. The Parsis who devote themselves to banking, commerce and business are
the wealthiest community in Bombay.
Bombay is the seat of
the government of Maharashtra, where the Governor lives and the Assembly meets.
It is also a great University centre and noted for its collages ad
schools.
It is a great city,
with many fine buildings; and the view of the bay from the beautiful drive
round its shore is a sight not to be forgotten. The blue water of the sea,
dotted with vessels, from the small native boats to the great liners, and the
shore with its palm-trees and the gardens and fine houses on Malabar Hill, make
Mumbai a wonderful Gateway to India.