The Aga Khan network will work closely with state

Mumbai: His Highness the Aga Khan, Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims, who is on an India visit, assured that the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) will work closely with the government of Maharashtra, especially in the areas of agriculture and rural support.

Appreciating the government’s efforts toward tribal development, the Aga Khan said that he will consider extending support to incomplete irrigation projects in the state and create livelihood opportunities for the tribals.

The Aga Khan, currently on his diamond jubilee visit to India, was speaking to the governor of Maharashtra, Ch Vidyasagar Rao at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, on Thursday. He also met chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, and both leaders discussed various social initiatives undertaken by the AKDN. The chief minister assured all cooperation for projects proposed in Maharashtra by AKDN.

Informing the governor that AKDN was working closely with MIT and Harvard for a programme on architecture and design, the Aga Khan said, “AKDN is also keen on working closely with the Mumbai University.

 It would assist the varsity in designing and developing degree or diploma programmes in heritage conservation. AKDN is concentrating on developmental work in six states of India, including Mahar-ashtra.” The organisation is mainly working in the areas of education, healthcare, rural development and agriculture.

Congratulating the Aga Khan the governor said that the world needed a person like him to convey the message of Islam.