DPC proposals urgently enacted ahead of elections, Rs 21 bn approved

In anticipation of the upcoming elections this year, Deputy Chief Minister and District Guardian Minister Devendra Fadnavis has instructed that all proposals put forth by the District Planning Committee (DPC) must be executed prior to the enforcement of the model code of conduct. During a meeting, the DPC approved a budget of Rs 6687.2 million for the fiscal year 2024-25. An additional fund of Rs 14.31 billion was also requested, bringing the total district demand to Rs 21 billion. The draft plan for 2024-25, encompassing general, scheduled caste sub-plan, and tribal component programs, received approval. Following the endorsement of the additional demand, the draft plan will be presented at the state-level meeting before receiving final approval. Fadnavis highlighted plans to increase the financial limit by revising criteria for rural gymnasiums. Meanwhile, MLA Nitin Raut raised concerns about the use of substandard materials in sports infrastructure projects. The earlier allocation of Rs 250 million for the construction of a mall for self-help groups at Badkas Chowk was reduced to Rs 120 million. MLC Pravin Datke expressed dismay over the prolonged stall of the project, which has persisted for over a decade. In a separate initiative, Fadnavis handed over five fire tenders and eleven SUVs to municipal councils in Mauda, Parseoni, Hingna, Wanadongri, Kanhan-Pimpri, and rural police. These acquisitions were made possible through DPC funds.