The ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra is set to unveil a significant manifesto for Mumbai, packed with promises aimed at empowering women, enhancing urban infrastructure, and leveraging technology for better governance. The manifesto will be jointly released on Sunday by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Key Promises: Empowering Women and Revamping Public Spaces
One of the cornerstone announcements is a substantial financial boost for beneficiaries of the Ladki Bahin Scheme. The alliance plans to offer a Rs 5 lakh interest-free loan to help these women start their own micro-enterprises, fostering entrepreneurship and economic independence.
In a major shift for the city's upkeep, the manifesto promises that all open spaces across Mumbai will be maintained exclusively by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), putting an end to private participation in their management. This move aims to ensure uniform standards and public accountability.
Infrastructure, Environment, and a Tech-Driven Administration
The document outlines a comprehensive plan for the city's physical and digital infrastructure. A key infrastructure pledge is the completion of all roads in cement concrete with a utility corridor, aiming to end the perennial problem of potholes and haphazard digging.
On the environmental front, the alliance proposes a massive budgetary provision of Rs 17,000 crore and the establishment of an Environmental Protection Authority, modelled on the lines of the existing Tree Authority, to safeguard Mumbai's ecology.
Embracing the future, the manifesto focuses on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital platforms to increase transparency and efficiency in the city's administration. Plans also include setting up an innovation hub to foster a culture of technology and startups.
A Manifesto Shaped by Mumbaikars
BJP city chief Ameet Satam emphasized that the manifesto is a product of extensive public consultation. He revealed that over 2.6 lakh residents participated in an online survey, providing their opinions and suggestions which have been incorporated into the final document. This approach underscores the alliance's claim of drafting a people-centric agenda for India's financial capital.
