Maharashtra News: Development Stalls In Nashik And Raigad As Guardian Minister Appointments Remain Pending

Despite the Maharashtra government having completed six months in office, Nashik and Raigad districts continue to suffer development delays due to the absence of appointed guardian ministers, according to a senior official from the Mantralaya.

Following the allocation of guardian ministers to all other districts, development planning in most areas has progressed through District Planning and Development Committee (DPDC) meetings. However, Nashik and Raigad remain exceptions, with no guardian ministers appointed, leading to a standstill in various projects and fund allocations.

The delay in Raigad is reportedly due to a political tussle between Maharashtra Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare and Employment Guarantee Minister Bharat Gogawale of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction. Both leaders have staked claims to the post of guardian minister for Raigad, resulting in a deadlock.

A similar situation prevails in Nashik, where no consensus has been reached either. While there have been ongoing discussions within the cabinet, no final decision has been made. According to Bharat Gogawale, it was agreed in principle that the Nashik guardian minister post would go to the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, and the Raigad post would go to the Shinde faction. However, Tatkare’s firm stance has stalled this arrangement.

The absence of DPDC meetings in these two large districts has hindered the planning and distribution of government funds. Both Nashik and Raigad are typically allocated between ₹1,000 to ₹1,200 crore annually for development work. Without guardian ministers to lead these planning sessions, crucial development projects have been delayed for over six months.

Local demands are growing for a swift resolution to the political deadlock, with citizens urging the state government to ensure fair representation and expedite development efforts in both districts.