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Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Skill Tech University, Expands Development Programs

The Maharashtra cabinet has approved the establishment of a private IES Skill Tech University in Bandra, set to begin operations in the 2026-27 academic year. It also expanded the Aspirational District Programme to six additional districts, focusing on health, education, and digital infrastructure. Key amendments to the Maharashtra Medical Council Act will change member selection from elected to government-appointed. Furthermore, the cabinet cleared NABARD funding for fishery infrastructure and committed to realizing a music institute as envisioned by the late Asha Bhosle.

Key Points: Maharashtra OKs Skill Tech University, Medical Council Changes

  • Skill Tech University in Bandra by 2026-27
  • Aspirational District Programme expands to 6 new districts
  • Medical Council members to be appointed, not elected
  • NABARD funding for coastal fish landing centres
2 min read

Maha cabinet clears Skill Tech University at Bandra​

Maharashtra cabinet approves IES Skill Tech University in Bandra, expands Aspirational District Programme, and amends Medical Council Act.

"The government remains committed to advancing this proposal - CM Devendra Fadnavis on Asha Bhosle's music institute vision"

Mumbai, April 13

The Maharashtra cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Monday approved the Indian Education Society to establish a private, self-financed IES Skill Tech University in Bandra. ​

It is slated to begin operations in the 2026-27 academic year, focusing on specialised skill training to bridge the employment-supply gap.​

Further, the cabinet approved expanding the Aspirational District Programme to six new districts: Hingoli, Jalna, Palghar, Beed, Dhule, and Parbhani. The programme will now cover a total of 177 tehsils (adding 150 new ones to the existing 27). ​

Focus areas will include health, nutrition, education, and digital infrastructure, utilising District Annual Plans and Corporate Social Responsibility funds.​

The cabinet also approved amendments to the Maharashtra Medical Council Act, 1965. As per the proposed changes, members will now be appointed by the state government rather than elected. ​

The number of members will increase from 18 to 23, ensuring balanced representation of experts and transparent, merit-based selection.​

According to the government release, the cabinet also cleared funding of Rs 61.24 crore from NABARD's Rural Infrastructure Development Fund for basic facilities at fish landing centres. Thane, Raigad, Sindhudurg, Palghar and Ratnagiri districts will benefit from today's decision. ​

Under this funding plan, Divaale Gaon, Vijaydurg, Dhakti Dahanu and others are included. The state government will contribute 5 per cent, while NABARD will provide 95 per cent of the funding.​

Meanwhile, CM Fadnavis announced that the state government will take proactive steps to establish a music institute in line with the vision of the late Asha Bhosle. ​

The decision was shared during a State Cabinet meeting, where members paid a solemn and heartfelt tribute to the iconic playback singer. ​

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar and other members of the state cabinet.​

CM Fadnavis highlighted that the late Ashatai had previously submitted a proposal to establish an institution dedicated to music.

He stated that the government remains committed to advancing this proposal and will take every necessary step to ensure that the institute, as envisioned by Ashatai, becomes a reality.​

During the proceedings, Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal read out the official condolence motion, honouring the life and unparalleled contributions of Asha Bhosle to the world of art and culture. ​

The cabinet observed a moment of silence to mark her passing, recognising her as a monumental figure in India's musical history.​

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Expanding the Aspirational District Programme to more tehsils is a good move. But the real test is implementation. We've seen many schemes fail at the ground level due to corruption and bureaucracy. Hope this one delivers actual change in health and education.
A
Aditya G
Appointing MMC members instead of electing them? Not sure about this. While it may bring in experts, it reduces democratic accountability. The medical council needs to be independent. This could be a step towards more government control.
S
Sarah B
The funding for fish landing centres in coastal districts is very practical. Supporting our fishermen with better infrastructure can boost the local economy and ensure better prices for their catch. The 95% NABARD funding is a great deal for Maharashtra.
M
Meera T
A music institute in Asha Bhosle's name is a beautiful tribute to a legend. Her voice is the soundtrack of our lives. It's important to preserve and promote our cultural heritage. Hope it provides opportunities to talented students from all backgrounds.
V
Vikram M
So many announcements in one cabinet meeting. Skill university, district plans, medical council, fisheries, and a music institute. Hope the focus isn't too scattered. The government needs to ensure proper follow-up on all these fronts. The devil is in the details.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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