May 1: Governor P C Alexander today reminded the state government that it was essential to restructure the academic curriculum of schools and colleges in the state paying special attention to technology as an input. He was speaking at a function organised by mayor Vishakha Raut at her residence to celebrate Maharashtra Day.

The Governor had earlier attended the government function at Shivaji Park where he witnessed the ceremonial parade, presented the President's police medals for bravery and meritorious service and watched the 24 decorative floats from the districts which displayed various aspects of Marathi life and culture.

In his speech, Alexander said the state had retained its primacy in the industrial sector in India so far, but in the coming decades technology will become the crucial factor in production.

Therefore, states which did not train its labour force to absorb new technology may lose in competition with others, he observed and felt that Maharashtra should keep pace with new technology and make the youth technology-conscious. However, the Governor lamented the low rate of literacy among women of the state. He said that in a highly-developed state like Maharashtra, it was not pardonable to have 48 per cent of its women illiterate. The education of women education had become a vital factor in the future economic progress of the state, Alexander said.

At the Shivaji Park celebrations, Maharashtra Day was welcomed amidst traditional pomp and revelry with a select audience which included the Governor, Chief Minister Manohar Joshi and other dignitaries. Like in earlier years, this year's highlights included the colourful floats taken out by various districts of the state. The award for best float which consisted a prize of Rs 50,000 went to Thane district, which depicted the adivasi lifestyle. Close on its heels was the float from Raigad district which represented the Navy. It received a prize of Rs 30,000. In third place was Satara which showed the dignity of labour and bagged a prize of Rs 20,000. All the winners were awarded medals by the Governor.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.