Thu Sep 11 05:35:26 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

A cabinet sub-committee in Maharashtra, India, dedicated to the welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBC), met to discuss concerns surrounding a government resolution (GR) that allows the Maratha community to apply for Kunbi caste certificates. The committee, led by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, emphasized the need to avoid creating conflict between OBC and Maratha communities. While addressing concerns about the GR’s potential impact on OBC reservations, the committee affirmed that certificates should only be issued with clear Kunbi-Maratha lineage. The committee also approved a budget of ₹3,800 crore for OBC development and plans to implement employment generation schemes for OBC youth.

**News Article:**

**Maharashtra Govt. Committee Addresses OBC Concerns Over Maratha GR, Pledges ₹3,800 Crore for Welfare**

**Mumbai, September 11, 2025** – A Maharashtra state cabinet sub-committee dedicated to the welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBC) convened on Wednesday to address concerns arising from a recent government resolution (GR) that allows the Maratha community to apply for Kunbi caste certificates based on historical records.

The committee, headed by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, emphasized the importance of maintaining social harmony and preventing a “OBC versus Maratha” environment. “Our unified stand is that certificates must be given following the GR,” Bawankule stated, clarifying that certificates should only be issued where there is clear documentation of Kunbi-Maratha or Maratha-Kunbi lineage. He also warned against the issuance of OBC certificates based on inaccurate information.

OBC leader and NCP Minister Chhagan Bhujbal raised objections to the use of the word “Maratha” in the GR, arguing it was “vague” and could negatively affect OBC reservations. The GR, which relies on entries from the Hyderabad gazetteer, has faced criticism from OBC communities who fear it could dilute their existing quotas.

The sub-committee, comprising eight members from the Mahayuti alliance, is tasked with developing plans for the social, educational, and economic empowerment of OBCs. Bawankule announced the committee’s approval of a ₹3,800 crore budget for over 353 OBC communities. Plans are also underway to create employment generation schemes for OBC youth, mirroring the Annasaheb Patil Mahamandal yojana.

Minister Pankaja Munde reassured the OBC community, stating, “The State government will never ignore the concerns of the Other Backwards Classes (OBCs) on the Maratha GR.” The committee also plans to review past decisions made during Bhujbal’s tenure as president, ensuring continuity and effectiveness in OBC welfare programs.

This move comes as the state government navigates complex caste dynamics and seeks to balance the needs of different communities while adhering to reservation policies.

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