State Govt Initiatives: Student Opportunities, Sand Policy, Farmer Aid & More

Opportunities for Karnataka Border Students in Competitive Exams – Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule

Mumbai : The Maharashtra government is committed to ensuring that students from the Karnataka border region can participate in competitive exams, announced Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule in the Legislative Council.

Responding to a question raised by Member Niranjan Davkhare, Minister Bawankule stated that competitive exam centers and skill development centers would be established in the region. He emphasized that the state government is supporting these students by providing them with necessary training to improve their employment prospects. Additionally, the Karnataka border students were allowed to apply for the Talathi recruitment examination, with 391 candidates registering for the 2023 exam.

Comprehensive Sand Mining Policy to Curb Illegal Trade – Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule

Mumbai : To tackle illegal sand mining, the Maharashtra government is formulating a comprehensive sand mining policy, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced in the Legislative Council.

Replying to a question by Opposition Leader Ambadas Danve, Minister Bawankule stated that a joint operation between the Revenue and Police Departments is already in place. However, due to rising incidents of sand smuggling, the government will introduce stricter regulations. The policy will encourage the use of M-sand (manufactured sand) to reduce dependency on riverbed sand. Additionally, financial assistance will be provided for setting up sand crushers in each district, with a target of establishing 50 to 100 units per district. The policy will also empower revenue and police officials with equal authority to take action against illegal sand miners.

Financial Support for Badnapur Agricultural Research Center – Agriculture Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate

Mumbai : The Maharashtra government has approved a proposal of ₹2.85 crore for strengthening the Badnapur Agricultural Research Center in Jalna district, along with ₹14.35 crore for infrastructure development, Agriculture Minister Adv. Manikrao Kokate announced in the Legislative Council.

Responding to a question by Member Satish Chavan, Minister Kokate highlighted the center’s significant contributions to pulse and legume research. The center has developed high-demand seeds for crops like pigeon pea, chickpea, and black gram, benefiting farmers nationwide. The government will ensure that locally produced seeds are made available to farmers.

Fiber Boats to Boost Fishermen’s Income – Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane

Mumbai : Fisheries Minister Nitesh Rane stated that replacing traditional wooden boats with lightweight fiber boats will increase the income of fishermen and boat owners by allowing more trips per day.

Replying to a question by Member Milind Narvekar, Minister Rane explained that the government plans to provide financial assistance through cooperative and national banks for purchasing fiber boats. This initiative will not only enhance fishermen’s earnings but also boost tourism. Additionally, an inquiry into the Nilkamal boat accident is underway, and appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible.

Pending Wages of ₹216.61 Crore Disbursed – Employment Guarantee Minister Bharat Gogawale

Mumbai : The Maharashtra government has disbursed ₹216.61 crore in pending wages under the Employment Guarantee Scheme (EGS), announced Minister Bharat Gogawale in the Legislative Council.

Responding to a question by Member Uma Khapre, Minister Gogawale clarified that wages for the first 100 days are covered by the state government, while wages beyond that are funded by the central government. Since central funds are yet to be received, the state government is considering using its funds temporarily and reimbursing them once the central allocation arrives.

₹12,262 Crore Allocated for Farmers Affected by Natural Disasters – Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Makarand Patil

Mumbai : The Maharashtra government has disbursed ₹12,262 crore to compensate farmers affected by natural disasters, with an additional ₹13,361 crore approved for future relief, stated Relief and Rehabilitation Minister Makarand Patil in the Legislative Council.

Replying to a question by Member Parinay Fuke, Minister Patil emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring 100% compensation distribution. Efforts are being made to link farmers’ bank accounts with Aadhaar and complete e-KYC to facilitate faster payments. Lists of farmers without Aadhaar-linked bank accounts have been published at local offices to expedite the process. He assured that no affected farmer would be left without compensation.