The nation looks at Maharashtra as a progressive state which pioneered far reaching legislations like the Employment Guarantee Programme, empowerment of Panchayati Raj institutions, consumer protection act and in recent times the Right to Information Act.

This was stated by President Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil while addressing the gathering on the occasion of Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly in Mumbai on Tuesday evening.

Remembering her past the President said that about 50 yrs ago she entered the Legislative Assembly as a young MLA and served as minister and leader of opposition.

The President emphasised that it is necessary to guard democratic values to reap the benefits of decentralization.

Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil said that Legislative Assemblies reflect the views and aspirations of the people and it is for people’s representatives to discharge their duties keeping in mind institutional and democratic norms.

The President also stressed that there is an urgent need for undertaking electoral reforms and debate on the ways to strengthen governance, legislative system, as well as judicial system.

Alongside there is also a need to reform our education system.She lauded the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly for constructive democratic activity for 75 years. Saying that the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly has been at the forefront of framing people friendly and growth oriented legislation she expressed the hope that Maharashtra Legislature will continue its good work in future also.