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Former maharaja demands Maru Pradesh state

Close on the heels of the Centre's decision to create three new states of Vananchal, Uttaranchal, Chattisgarh in the country comes the demand of carving out a new state -- Maru Pradesh -- comprising 13 districts of Rajasthan.

While welcoming the government's decision to create three new states in the country, the former maharaja of Jodhpur and Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation Chairman Gaj Singh said in Jaipur that he felt that the demand for Maru Pradesh was justified as this desert region was one of the most backward in the country.

The proposed state would comprise districts of Jodhpur, Nagaur, Churu, Hanumangarh, Ganganagar, Bikaner, Sikar, Jhunjhunu, Jaisalmer, Barmer, Jalore, Sirohi and Pali.

Singh clarified that the proposed Maru Pradesh would be a viable state as it is bound by strong cultural and linguistic linkages through the Rajasthani language.

Geographically and economically, the region is rich in minerals, animal husbandry, handicrafts and tourism potential and lends itself to a self-sustaining unit with similar developmental problems requiring a different approach and thrust from that of the more fertile eastern part of the state, Singh said.

According to Singh, the Aravalis would be a natural dividing line for the proposed state which would require special development funding on a priority basis to preserve social harmony and security.

He hoped that the state and Central governments will view the division of Rajasthan in right perspective and take appropriate measures at the earliest.

UNI

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