Expressing concern over the prevailing water scarcity situation in Maharashtra, Governor K Sankaranarayanan today assured people that the state government is taking all necessary steps to overcome the situation through short and long term measures.

Governor said a package of Rs 1,985 crore has been provided as part of these relief measures. A provision has been made to provide temporary ration cards to people migrating from the water scarcity affected areas, he said.

Water scarcity situation in the state, newly announced industrial policy, memorials for Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar and Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, e-governance, women's empowerment and other issues found prominent mention in the Maharashtra Day speech of the Governor today.

The Governor delivered his Maharashtra Day speech at the state function to celebrate the 53rd anniversary of the formation of Maharashtra at Shivaji Park in Mumbai.

The Governor unfurled the national flag and took salute from the ceremonial parade on the occasion.

Mentioning that the state government will be celebrating the birth centenary of former Chief Minister of Maharashtra late V P Naik during 2013, he reiterated the decision of the government to set up 'international standards memorial' of Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar in Mumbai and Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj in Kolhapur.