Maharashtra Launches e-Cabinet; Approves Hike In Tribal Student Allowances, Key Infrastructure Projects

The Maharashtra government launched its first e-Cabinet on Tuesday, marking a significant step toward digital governance. Under this initiative, cabinet agendas, proposals, and previous meeting records will now be shared and accessed digitally through iPads provided to ministers—ushering in a shift toward a paperless administrative system.

The government has distributed 50 iPads, complete with keyboards, Apple Pencils, and protective covers, at a total cost of ₹1.06 crore. This move follows Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ concern over leaks of cabinet agendas before official meetings. The implementation of the e-Cabinet is intended to enhance confidentiality and improve administrative efficiency.

Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal briefed the media, explaining that cabinet agendas, notes, and minutes will now be sent to ministers and the Chief Minister via their official email accounts. Each minister has received a unique set of login credentials to access these documents securely on their iPads. The Information Technology Department has also conducted training sessions to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.

Additionally, PowerPoint presentations and records of previous cabinet decisions will also be accessible through these devices, streamlining the flow of information during meetings.

The concept of the e-Cabinet was first introduced in January during a cabinet meeting by Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik. The proposal received approval shortly thereafter with the objective of reducing paper usage and improving transparency in decision-making processes.

“The system will help maintain the confidentiality of proposals and eliminate the need for physical documents,” an official said. “This move is part of the state’s larger vision for a paperless and efficient governance model.”

Officials believe that as ministers become more accustomed to this digital shift, cabinet meetings in the future may be conducted entirely through electronic means.

Support for Tribal Students:

In a move aimed at supporting higher education among Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, the Maharashtra Cabinet has approved a significant increase in the living and meal allowances for students residing in government-run hostels across the state. The hike nearly doubles the existing allowance, and the scholastic material purchase allowance has also been increased.

This decision will benefit over 58,700 students living in 490 government hostels—284 for boys and 206 for girls—at divisional, district, taluka, and rural levels. The initiative is expected to ease the financial burden on tribal students pursuing higher education away from home.

Other Key Cabinet Decisions:

Koyna Hydroelectric Project: Approval of ₹862.29 crore for the development of the Koyna Dam Foot Hydroelectric Power Plant on the left bank.

High Court Land in Bandra (East): A plot reserved for the High Court will be transferred free of cost to the Public Works Department (PWD) for construction of court premises.

STP Land in Chikhli, Pimpri-Chinchwad: Approval for allocation of 7,000 square meters from a 1.75-hectare burial ground in Chikhli village for a sewage treatment plant (STP) by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation.

₹2,000 Crore HUDCO Loan: The state will provide a government guarantee for a ₹2,000 crore loan from HUDCO under the Maharashtra Urban Infrastructure Development Loan Scheme. The Cabinet has also decided to waive the guarantee fee associated with the loan.