Wed Feb 19 03:56:18 UTC 2025: **Maharashtra Cabinet Approves Major Infrastructure and Anti-Narcotics Initiatives**
**Mumbai, February 19, 2025** – The Maharashtra Cabinet yesterday approved several key initiatives, including the establishment of a new State Finance Commission, expansion of the Anti-Narcotics Task Force, and significant investments in infrastructure projects.
The sixth State Finance Commission will be responsible for reviewing the financial health of local governments, recommending resource allocation, and improving financial management practices. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will nominate the commission’s chair and members.
To bolster the fight against drug trafficking, the Cabinet approved the creation of 346 new positions within the Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF), formed in 2023.
A substantial ₹1,594 crore solar energy project was greenlit to enhance the efficiency of the Mhaisal Lift Irrigation Scheme, benefiting drought-prone areas and irrigating 108,197 hectares of land. The project is expected to reduce electricity consumption by approximately 398 million units annually. The Cabinet further recommended wider adoption of solar energy for water pumping.
To improve connectivity, the government will provide land to the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML) for the development of ropeway projects across the state.
Finally, ₹1,275.78 crore was allocated for the Varakhede Londhe (Barrage) medium project in Jalgaon district, irrigating 8,290 hectares. Land was also allocated for a new bridge improving access to Dinanath Mangeshkar Hospital in Pune. These infrastructure projects signal a significant investment in Maharashtra’s development.
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