India, July 16 -- American electric vehicle maker Tesla's debut to India, which opened a showroom in Mumbai on Tuesday, served as a timely example for state industries minister Uday Samant, when replying to a debate in the state assembly on the investment scenario in Maharashtra.

"Tesla is an example to prove that the state is the most preferred destination when it comes to investment," Samant declared, referring to the 'experience centre' at BKC, inaugurated by chief minister Devendra Fadnavis. Significantly, Tesla has not made any commitment to setting up manufacturing units anywhere in India, as yet.

Samant was responding to a debate on the state's performance on attracting investments, especially foreign direct investment (FDI). The...