MAHARASHTRA BUDGET 2018-19 SPEECH DATED 9Th MARCH, 2018 BY HONOURABLE MINISTER (FINANCE, PLANNING & FOREST) SHRI SUDHIR MUNGANTIWAR
Budget Speech Part-I
Honourable Sir,
This is the fourth year of this people centric, transparent, and development-oriented Government. As the Finance Minister, I have so far presented three budgets which will lead to the progress of the State. Now, I am happy to present my fourth budget.
In my last budget speech, I had mentioned about the Jal and Bhoomipoojan for Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Memorial in Arabian Sea near Mumbai at the hands of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Now, the tender for this memorial has been finalized and work order has been issued. I am happy to mention that this project will be completed in thirty-six months. A sum of Rs. 300 crores is being earmarked for this project and additional funds will be made available as per pace and need of work through supplementary budget.
Government has appointed the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority as the special planning authority for the development of the proposed memorial for Bharatratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar. The State Government has taken over the land of Indu Mill for the proposed monument from the National Textile Corporation in March 2017. Work order has been issued for this memorial on 09.02.2018. A provision of Rs.150 crores has been made for this project for the year 2018-19.
The Hon. Prime Minister of India has declared that the Indian economy should expand to five trillion dollars by the year 2025. The State Government envisions that the share of Maharashtra in the national economy shall be one trillion dollars. This will be achieved by increasing growth in sectors like agriculture, textiles, tourism, start-ups and by investing in Industry with requisite skill development support. For achieving targets appropriate polices relating to industrial sector such as defence, agro and food processing, textiles, aerospace, logistics, fin-tech, animation, robotics, artificial intelligence have been carefully prepared notified and implementation of the same has also started. We have increased investment in basic infrastructure facilities and in agricultural sector. Since, in the coming times, the share of service sector in employment generation shall be highest, the Government shall strive to increase the growth rate of the service sector.
Investment on a large scale is being made continuously in the agricultural sector. This has resulted in increase in the agricultural income in the State. As per the final estimates for the year 2016-17, there was a record production of 17,230 thousand metric tonnes of food grains. As per the second advance estimates for 2017-18, the production of grains is expected to be 13,283 thousand metric tonnes. The main reason of this was that the State received average rainfall of 84.3 %. Upon comparing the rainfall and food grain production in the State it may be observed that the rainfall in the year 2013-14 was 124.6% of the average rainfall and the food production was 13791 thousand metric tonnes. Whereas, the rainfall in the year 2017-18 was 84.3% of the average rainfall and the food production was similar. This means that on account of irrigation projects, jalyukta shivar, farm ponds on demand and various agriculture related programmes the availability of surface water and ground water availability has increased.
A good public transport system is essential for the growth of the economy. The government considers metro rail as one of the solutions to the problem of increased traffic in the State. Accordingly, the implementation of rail metro projects in metropolitan areas of Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur at an estimated cost of about one lakh crores are in full swing.
All approvals have been obtained for developing the Navi Mumbai International Airport. The bhoomi pujan of the airport was done by the Hon. Prime Minister Shri. Narendraji Modi . Development works in the core area of airport have already commenced, and one runway is expected to be completed by December, 2019. MMRDA is constructing the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link between Mumbai and Navi Mumbai at an estimated cost of Rs.17,843 crores to develop a direct access to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport.
To achieve a trillion dollar economy by 2025, the Government has followed policy of simplifying procedures for enhancing Ease of Doing Business. The World Bank has surveyed one hundred and ninety economies of the world based on various business-friendly steps. India’s ranking has improved from 130 in the year 2017 to 100 in 2018, and this progress is significant. As per the surveys conducted in the cities of Mumbai and Delhi, the progress is mainly due to improvement in the ease of doing business in Maharashtra. Mumbai has been ranked ahead of Delhi as regards to implementation of nine out of ten guidelines for ease of doing business. Therefore, there will be a substantial increase in manufacturing and growth of private industry in the future.
The state Government has organised Magnetic Maharashtra – Convergence 2018 and implemented “Make in Maharashtra” to give an impetus to industry, increase domestic and foreign investment in the industrial sector and thereby generate more employment.
Our government is launching a special policy to promote textile sector. It will provide subsidy in power, up to Rs. 3 per unit for cooperative spinning mills and up to Rs. 2 per unit to textile units other than cooperative spinning mills. Power subsidy is also being extended to knitting and hosiery units.
New units will be given capital subsidy up to 25 per cent of project costs. A subsidy of up to Rs. nine crores towards project cost will be provided for textile parks in cotton growing areas. A skilling programme has been approved to promote employment, particularly to the women in the garment sector.
It has been decided to launch an innovative Fintech Policy to promote innovative financial services particularly to the poor who are not fully served by the formal banking sector and provide employment to educated youth. This new policy provides for setting up a Fintech Hub in Mumbai. Capital support for setting up various common facilities in this Fintech Hub will be made available.
“Electric Vehicle Manufacturing Policy” has been launched to reduce the carbon footprint. Under this policy, buyers of electric vehicles will be provided direct subsidy. The electric vehicle manufacturers are also being extended special package of incentives.
The logistic sector plays an important part in the development of the state. Recognising this, the Government has recently announced a logistics policy for the state. This policy enables establishment of multi-modal Logistic Park. The rules in this regard have been rationalized considering the specific needs of this sector, enabling the setting up of variety of logistic parks. The logistic sector has also been declared as an industry.
The Government of India has taken initiative for indigenization of defence equipment. In alignment with central policy, the Government has declared a special policy to encourage production of defence related components. Special assistance is being provided to medium, small and micro enterprises in aerospace and defence equipment production which are operating in the clusters.
This Government has announced a ‘Extended Gala Scheme’ to provide building space at an affordable cost to micro, small and medium Enterprises. Under the scheme, additional FSI has been made available for construction of industrial buildings.
The Government has given approval for 44 micro and small scale industrial clusters for the development of the State. It is expected that small scale units will receive a subsidy of about Rs. 100 crores in the next three years and more than one lakh people will receive direct employment. The Government has announced a special policy for women entrepreneurs. The number of women entrepreneurs is expected to increase from 9% to 20% in the next five years due to this policy.
Now I draw your attention to some major provisions in this budget:
Agriculture and Allied Sectors
1. Irrigation
Our Government’s firm resolve is to double the income of farmers. For this, sustainable agriculture is an effective solution. The availability of irrigation is necessary for sustainable agriculture. Therefore, our Government has taken various initiatives to increase the irrigated area in the last three years by implementing various projects like Jalayukt Shivar, ‘farm ponds on demand’, dug wells etc. I have made available funds to all the schemes of the Water Resources Department in the last three years. There are twenty six projects in the State under the Prime Minister Krishi Sinchai Yojana. I am providing a sum of Rs. 3115 crores 21 lakhs in 2018-19 for these twenty six projects. A substantial amount of Rs. 8233 crores 12 lakhs is being provided for Water Resources Department in 2018-19. This includes an amount of Rs. 300 crores 13 lakhs for NABARD projects. We plan to bring 2 lakh 26 thousand hectares under irrigation and 853 million cubic meters of storage. This year fifty projects will be completed, from the list of incomplete projects.
A special programme will be taken for Khar bandhara construction in Konkan. Special repairs will also be undertaken as a part of this initiative. A sum of Rs. sixty crores is being earmarked for this purpose for the year 2018-19.
2. Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan
Jalayukt Shivar Abhiyan is an ambitious project of the State Government. The Government considers this as an attempt to find a permanent solution to the recurring challenge of drought in the State. It is planned to make 5000 villages scarcity free under this scheme, every year. In the last two years, over eleven thousand villages have become water-sufficient. In these villages more than 4,25,000 water conservation works have been completed and water storage capacity of 16 lakh 82 thousand TCM has been created. 880 lakh cubic meter of silt has been removed through public participation. Work of deepening and widening water bodies of 1847 kms has been completed. During the financial year 2017-18, 8359 works have been completed till the end of January, 2018. For the year 2018-19, special provision of Rs. 1500 crores has been proposed for Jalyukta Shivar Abhiyan.
3. Wells, Farm Ponds, Micro Irrigation
We have completed 82859 dug wells under Samruddha Maharashtra Janakalyan Yojana and other schemes. Over and above this, about 98,000 wells are under various stages of construction. Under the scheme of ‘farm pond on demand’, 62000 farm ponds have been completed. Drip system in the solution for effective utilisation of available water for irrigation. The area under drip irrigation has substantially increased using Israeli technology.
A sum of Rs 432 crores is being earmarked in 2018-19 for drip irrigation. Further, for wells and farm ponds an amount of Rs. 160 crores is being provided.
4. Encouragement to Agro-Forestry
The Government has the intention of promoting Agro-Forestry in order to provide farmers with a new source of income, along with crop and livestock. Through this scheme, quality seeds, new plants, clones, hybrids and improved varieties will be provided to farmers for tree plantation and 50% of the total expenditure for tree plantation and nursery will be given as subsidy. Apart from increasing the income of the farmers, this plan will also reduce the level of carbon emissions and improve the quality of the land. For this scheme, Rs15 crore is being provided in the year 2018-19.
5. Storage andgrading of agricultural produce:
It has been decided to set up grain grading machines in the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) of the state. A new scheme with a subsidy of 25% will be implemented, and an outlay has been reserved in the 201819 budget. This step will enable unnecessary harassment to farmers while determining quality of farm produce. It will segregate FAQ material and traders will have to give fair rates as per quality of produce.
6. Organic agriculture, poison free agriculture:
Organic agriculture is considered as an alternative to overcome the deteriorating fertility of soil and health hazards created by chemical fertilizer and pesticides. The State Government is aiming to double the farmer’s income. Organic agriculture will not only reduce the input costs of agriculture but will also fetch higher market price for the farmer’s products.
The State Government has decided to encourage organic agriculture and is framing a separate scheme for the same. A sum of Rs. 100 crore is reserved for this scheme.
7. Expansion of Horticulture Scheme:
The scheme of horticulture is being implemented with funds available under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS, State Employment Guarantee Scheme and also the National Horticulture Mission. At present there is a limit of 10 hectares in Konkan and 4 hectare in rest of Maharashtra to get benefit unable the State EGS Scheme. It is proposed to increase limit to 6 hectares in the rest of Maharashtra. By this decision, a huge category of farmers who were unable to benefit from this scheme so far will get included in the eligibility criteria. Further, special encouragement will be given to mango and cashew producing farmers in Konkan.
A sum of Rs. 100 crores is reserved for this scheme in 201819.
8. Chief Minister Agriculture and Food Processing Scheme
Farmers can get good prices if their farm produce is processed. For this, a new scheme namely ‘Chief Minister Agriculture and Food Processing Scheme’ has been started. For the year 2018-19, it is proposed to provide Rs.50 crores for this scheme. This will help farmers to sell their value added farm produce at good price in the market.
9. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Shetkari Sanman Yojana
Our Government is progressing on the path laid down by the ideal, courageous, popular King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj who is the pride of Maharashtra. Following the policy of Shri Shivaji Maharaj, our government is providing highest priority to safeguard the interests of farmers. Only limited number of farmers could receive benefit from the loan waiver scheme of 2009 due to various preconditions for loan waiver. Keeping in mind the previous experience, and the difficulties faced by the farmers in coming out of the debt trap caused by repeated natural calamities, the Government has implemented the Chatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Shetkari Sanman Yojana 2017. Under this scheme, the farmer gets a debt waiver up to Rs. 1.50 lakhs irrespective of his landholding. It also provides on incentive up to Rs. 25 thousand for those farmers who have made prompt repayment of loans.
Certain guidelines have been provided with a view to ensure that the benefits of this scheme are availed only by needy and deserving farmers. So far, banks have been permitted to grant loan waiver to 46.34 lakh farm loan accounts, amounting to Rs. 23102.19 crores. Accordingly, banks have passed on Rs.13, 782 crores to 35.68 lakhs beneficiaries up to 6th March, 2018. Government is continuing its efforts to give benefit to all remaining eligible beneficiaries at the earliest.
10. Agricultural Pumps
In the last three years, 3 lakh 10,000 agriculture pumps received electricity connection, with an expenditure of Rs.3014 cr . Under the Vidharbha Marathwada Agriculture Pump Electricity connection special scheme, one lakh forty three thousand five sixty agricultural pumps were given electricity conection. A sum of Rs.1392 crores was spent under this scheme. During the year 2018-19, it is proposed to give electric connections to 93 thousand 322 agricultural pumps in the State, at a cost of Rs. 750 crores.
11. National Agricultural Market
It is the dream of our pro-active Prime Minister Hon. Shri. Narendraji Modi that farm produce should get appropriate price and farm produce being sold at APMC should be free from middlemen and agents. In order to realize this dream, the e-National Agriculture Market (e-nam) portal has been launched in the country and e-trading facility has been made available in thirty market committees of the state. It is also proposed to bring 145 major market committees in the state on the e-nam portal. The Agricultural Produce Mortgage Scheme through certified godowns in Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee is being encouraged. One hundred sixteen market committees of the state have started this scheme and more than 1,06,000 quintals of farm produce have been kept under mortgage. The farmers have been granted loans at a nominal 6% interest rate on the mortgaged farm produce. An amount of Rs. 9 crores is expected from Central Government in 2018-19 under this scheme.
The Agricultural Produce Mortgage scheme is being implemented through the Maharashtra State Agricultural Marketing Board and it has received great response from the farmers. Therefore to expand it and enable implementation of this scheme, a new scheme for construction of warehousing at the place of the State’s Agricultural Produce Market Committee is being proposed with the financial participation of the State Agricultural Marketing Board.
In addition, the Maharashtra State Warehousing Corporation, will be setting up storage facilities such as Godowns, Cold storages, and Silos near Samriddhi Mahamarg.
12. Goods transport through Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation
The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation has long experience in long distance transportation and has reach up to distant villages. It is proposed to utilise its infrastructure for development of a cost effective goods service across the State. It is planned that the quickly perishable produce of farmers will reach their market destination speedily and economically. This will help both the rural economy and the ultimate consumer. It will also augment the income of MSRTC. Accordingly, a detailed DPR for this initiative is under preparation.
There are 609 bus stands in the State. They are being renovated in a phased manner. The State Government has made available a sum of Rs.142 crores for construction and improvement of bus stands in the last three years. The MSRTC has used these funds to repair and renovate 92 bus stands. A sum of Rs.40 crores is being provided in 2018-19 .
13. Sericulture
There is good scope to generate employment through development of sericulture industry. Sericulture development scheme is being implemented in the State through large scale plantation of tuti, taser, arjan and ain saplings. Provision of Rs. 3 crore has been proposed for Sericulture development in 2018-19.
14. Skilled Maharashtra, Maharashtra Employable
In line with the ‘Skill India’ concept of Hon. Prime Minister the State Government has taken up ‘Skilled Maharashtra, Employable Maharashtra’ initiative to make available employment /self-employment opportunities to the youth of Maharashtra between the age of 15 years to 45 years by empowering them through skill development training, ‘Pramod Mahajan Skill and Entrepreneurship Development Mission’ has been under implementation since 2015. Under this mission, 2 lakh 84 thousand 627 candidates have been trained and 85 thousand 549 candidates have been provided employment or self employment. 2911 training institutes have been listed for various skill training under this mission, and these institutions are providing training to 1 lakh 37 thousand needy youth for employment and self-employment. In the next five years, there is a plan to provide skill development training to 10,31,000 candidates. Memorandum of Understanding with 90 entrepreneurs for training facilities have been signed in the state and 23 more are proposed to be signed.
15. Start-up Culture:
The State has declared imaginative start-up policy-2018, to create employment opportunities in the State. A target has been fixed to provide employment and self-employment opportunities to 5 lakh people by investing 5,000 crores through Angel Fund and Seed Fund. It is expected to give benefit to 10 thousand start-up industries by developing 15 incubators in the next 5 years.
A sum of Rs. five crores have been reserved for the establishment of a Centre of Excellence and Incubation Centre and to give aerospace and defence related skill development training to youths and for start-up development. To promote start-up enterprises, 80% of the total expenditure will be given as grant subject to the maximum ceiling of Rs. 2 lakh for Indian patent and Rs. 10 lakh for international patents. Further, 80% expenditure incurred on development and quality control will be reimbursed and expenditure on state GST will be compensated.
16. Foreign Employment and Skill Development Centre
The state government will launch the Foreign Employment and Skill Development Centre in the coming year. This Centre will provide information about the educational and quality employment opportunities available outside India. It will help the youth of Maharashtra to acquire necessary skills for employment abroad and prevent them from being duped by unscrupulous elements.
17. Skill University
Six skill development universities will be set up with the help of central government through private participation to provide skill development to the youth of the State. The State Government will make available the State share as per requirements.
18. Competitive Exam Guidance Centre
Graduate students have opportunity to appear for the competitive examinations for various posts by the Central and State Government. It is necessary that the proportion of students from Maharashtra appearing and succeeding in the national level competitive exams conducted by UPSC, Staff Selection Board, Banking Services Board and Railway Recruitment Board, Army etc should increase. However, due to lack of adequate information and guidance the students do not get finally selected. In order to get equal opportunities and to fulfil the aspirations of youth, it is intended to establish a Competitive Exams Guidance Centre in each district of the State. A sum of Rs. 50 crores is being reserved for this purpose.
19. Scheme for low HDI talukas
The Government has been implementing various schemes to upgrade quality of human development in identified 125 talukas of 12 districts of the State through the Human Development Mission. Now a new project ‘Action Room to Reduce Poverty’ has been taken up in collaboration with UN to reduce poverty through employment generation in twenty seven of the most backward talukas from the list of 125 talukas in the first phase. A sum of Rs.350 crores for the Human Development Mission is provided in 2018-19 budget. The State Government will be providing additional funds of Rs.121.27 crores for the four aspirational districts of Gadchiroli, Nandurbar, Washim and Osmanabad for time bound development .
20. Annasaheb Patil Economically Backward Development Corporation
This corporation was established to provide financial assistance to economically backward youth who want to take up entrepreneurial activities.The Corporation had a capital of Rs.50 crores. It was increased to Rs.400 crores last year. Accordingly, required funds will be made available to this Corporation. Recently the Government has given approval for various loan schemes ,which will benefit 1, 12,000 beneficiaries.
Human Resource Development
21. Maharashtra International Education Board:
The State Government has decided to have schools which will provides quality education of international levels it has decided to setup 100 schools in the first phase. A new body
22. Strengthening of Indian Administrative Services Preparatory Training Centre.
It is proposed to increase the stipend of the students who are undergoing training for the Public Service Commission exams from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 4, 000 from this financial year. This will encourage more bright student of Maharashtra to take up the Public Service Exam.
Further the resources of the training centres will be augmented so that they can procure model question papers from well-known private training institutions and also arrange for checking their solved papers from expert examiners. Funds to augment the pre IAS Training Institute at Amravati for strengthening the training centre, construction of buildings and hostels are being provided this year.
A sum of Rs. 13 crore is reserved for the above initiatives.
23. Educational concessions to economically weaker sections
Students from economically weaker sections of the society, who pursue approved vocational and higher educational courses are granted benefits under Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj educational fees reimbursement scheme. It is proposed to increase the limit of annual family income from Rs. 6 lakhs to 8 lakhs for eligibility for benefit under this scheme. It has also been decided to increase the scope of this scheme by relaxing certain terms and conditions and by including various other curriculi. A provision of Rs.605 crores is being proposed for the year 2018-19.
The newly created V.J. N.T. and O.B.C. Welfare Department has started functioning and a provision of Rs. 2963.35 crore has been proposed, out of which provision for reimbursement of educational fees and scholarships is Rs. 1875.97 crores.
24. Publication of literature of great national leaders
There is great demand in India and abroad for literature written by great national leaders and promoters of social Justice in Maharashtra such as Bharatratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, Krantisurya Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj, Sahityaratna Lokshahir Annabhau Sathe, Maharaja Sayajirao Gaikwad,.It is proposed to make available this literature on a separate dedicated website. For the year 2018-19, An outlay of Rs.4 crore is proposed for this. It is also proposed to set up a study centre In the name of Mahanubhav Panth’s pioneer Shri Chakradhar Swami at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University.
25. Integrated University Management System in Non-Agriculture Universities
An I.T. based Integrated University Management System (IUMS) is being designed by the Department of Information and Technology for non-agricultural universities in the state, which will facilitate various components of working such as enrolment of students ,affiliation of colleges, ,syllabuses, administrative matters etc. in a transparent and efficient manner.
For this purpose, a lump sum provision of Rs. 38 -Cr. 64 Lakhs is proposed to be made for next 5 years , an outlay of Rs. 18 Cr. is proposed to made for the year 2018-19.
Infrastructure Facilities
26. Improvement of Suburban Railway Services
Projects for improvement of suburban services in Mumbai worth Rs. 10948 crores under Mumbai Urban Transport Project-3 have been undertaken by Mumbai Railway Vikas Corporation , the cost sharing pattern between the state and centre governments is 50:50. Government of india has proposed a provision of Rs. 519.5 crores for this project. The state share will be borne by CIDCO and MMRDA. Under MUTP-3A Government of India has proposed various projects worth Rs. 54,776 crores and has provided a token provision of Rs. 1 crore. A proposal is under scrutiny so as to ascertain financial participation of local bodies and authorities and to assist in other ways.
27. Development of Metro in the State
A plan of metro network stretching 266 km has been Out of these,works of construction of 163 Km of metro network estimated to cost Rs. 76,421 crores have been undertaken. remaining works of 103 Km length will be taken up by the MMRDA in next 3-4 years. Thus, it is planned to complete projects of 266 Km length of metro in next 3-4 years. On successful completion of this project, 67 lakh passengers will get benefit of air-conditioned, safe and comfortable travel. It will also help in reduction of road accidents, noise and atmospheric pollution and save travel time. A provision of Rs.130 crore as subsidiary loan is proposed for the year 201819.
Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation has started the Metro projects in the metropolis of Pune and Nagpur, about 69 km long and approximate cost of these projects is Rs. 20,100 crores.. For these projects Rs. 90 crore provision in the form of subsidary loan is proposed. Apart from this, another metro project of 11 k.m. length and costing Rs. 3043 crores has been taken up through CIDCO in Navi Mumbai. PMRDA has also taken up 23.30 Km metro network in Pune costing about Rs. 8313 crores on PPP model, Government of India has consented to provide VGF of Rs. 1300 crores for this project.
28. Mumbai – Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg
Hon’ble Chief Minister had announced in the Legislative Assembly on 31.07.2015 a decision to construct high speed Nagpur-Mumbai Highway (Samruddhi Highway). Accordingly, Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation was declared as an implementing agency The entire new greenfield alignment for the highway has also been approved. Special purpose vehicle (SPV) has been set up in the name of Nagpur-Mumbai Super Communication Expressway Limited for this project .Now 99 % joint measurement has been completed for the length of 701k.m. Samruddhi Mahamarg will run through 10 districts, 26 tahsils and 390 villages. Private land purchase procedure up to 52% is completed. The work on project will start from April 2018.
29. Road Development
A goal of road construction of 3,36,994 km. total length has been set In the Road Development Plan 2001 – 2021. Out of this, 2 lakh 99 thousand 446 km has been achieved. During the financial year 2018-19, Rs. 10,828 crore has been proposed for road construction. A provision of Rs. 300 crore has been proposed under the NABARD loan assistance scheme, for road improvement and bridge construction programme. Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation has accorded its consent to take up the work for increasing the capacity ofMumbai-Pune Expressway. The estimated cost of this work is Rs. 4 thousand 797 crores. Apart from this, sanction has been given to the work of Versova-Bandra sea bridge worth Rs. 7 thousand 502 crore. The tender procedure for both of these works is in progress.
30. National Highway
As per the State Road Development Plan 2001-2021 a length of 4509 kilometres of national highway was envisaged. Now the length of NH as on 31st March 2014 is 5858 kilometres. Now I am happy to inform that it has increased to 15,404 km now. The Central Government has given in principle approval for a length of 11,700 kms of the State as NH . Out of this 7900 kms have been notified as national highway in January 2017. Now, 2800 kms of roadways is in the process of two laning . The project cost is Rs.26,000 crores and is in various stage of progress. Out of this , project for a length of 2000 kms valuing about Rs.16,000 crore is in tender stage.
31. Mukhyamantri Gramin Marga Yojana
Under the Mukhyamantri Gramin Marga Yojana roads of 2 thousand 600 kilometers of length have been completed in the last three years. Further road works for 7600 kms is under various stages of progress. This scheme has been a boon to rural people. In the year 2018-19 a goal has been set to complete roads of 7 thousand km length . A provision of Rs.2558 crore 40 lakhs is proposed for the purpose.
32. Mihan
Mihan is an important project of the state government and the investment in the project is expected to generate around 10,000 jobs in the coming period. MOU has been made for an investment of Rs 4066 crores, which will lead to employment generation for about 14475 persons. Government has decided to expand the Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport under Mihan on DBOFT basis. After the expansion, the airport is expected to have capacity to cater to about 1, 400 million passengers and 9 tonnes of cargo traffic by 2030. For this purpose, a provision of Rs.100 crore is proposed for the year 2018-19.
33. Sagarmala
Government of India has accorded its sanction to the 11 projects of infrastructure facilities amounting to Rs. 222 crores 39 lakhs for passenger water transport along the coastal ports. These projects are in progress at various stages and are expected to be completed till December 2019. Apart from this, another 23 projects have been presented to the Government of India worth Rs. 277 crores. The share of the State Government is 50% and a provision of Rs 22 crores is being made in 2018-19 for the same. It is proposed to have sea link for various locations in Mumbai and in Konkan coastal belt. It is proposed to have water transport arrangements with support from CIDCO, Mumbai Port Trust and Maharashtra Maritime Board . It will connect Bhaucha Dhakka and Mandwa and Alibag and will be operational from April 2018.
34. Energy
An outlay of Rs.7235 crore is being proposed for the year 2018-19 for infrastructure development and other schemes of Energy Department.
35. Development of Infrastructure facilities in the Power Sector
To improve the distribution system under Infrastructure Plan – 2, the Government will make available capital Rs. 365.55 crore to MahaDiscom in 2018-19.
36. Development of new and renewable energy sources
The Government has given thrust on generation of power through new and renewable energy sources (Non Conventional Energy). For this purpose, Rs. 774 crore 53 lakhs outlay has been proposed. Likewise, solar power projects up to 2500 megawatts shall be implemented by Mahagenco through PPP route.
37. Power Generation
To overcome the shortage in power generation, 2120 MW capacity power generation projects of MahaGenco are proposed. For this purpose, an outlay of Rs.404 crores 17 lakhs is proposed.
38. Electrification of Elephanta Caves
The government has been successful in supplying power to Gharapuri Elephanta Caves after seventy years. Electricity supply has been started through 3 transformers of 200 kv and 3.5 k.m. long low tension wire and 7.5 k.m. long high tension wire. A sum of Rs. 22 crore has been spent on this project.
39. Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini
The Government has taken a decision to supply power for 12 hours in the day to 40 lakh farmers in the State under Mukhyamantri Saur Krishi Vahini which is under speedily implementation. The works under this scheme are in full swing at Ralegaonsiddhi in Ahmednagar District, Kolambi in Yavatmal District, Gavhankund near Varud in Amravati District and the projects are expected to be commissioned in the next 2-3 months. Likewise projects of 300 MW under this scheme are going on stream in the near future. For this purpose, funds under green cess fund will be made available. A sum of Rs. 375 crore is being proposed for this purpose.
In the D and D+ industrial zones of Vidharbha, Marathwada and Northern Maharashtra industries are given concessions in power tariffs. For this purpose an outlay of Rs.926 crores 46 lakhs is proposed.
40. Construction of Court Buildings
The scheme of construction of office buildings for courts and quarters for judges is being implemented at various places in the State. The Government is making available sufficient funds for this purpose. Total 301 works of construction of judicial buildings, judges quarters and related works are in progress up to December 2017. Out of these works, 152 works have been completed and 149 are in progress. For the year 2018-19, an outlay of Rs. 700 crores 65 lakhs is proposed.
Industry
41. Magnetic Maharashtra
A global convention for investors namely Magnetic Maharashatra- Convergence 2018 was conducted during the period 18 – 20 February 2018,successfully at MMRDA ground, Bandra, Mumbai. During this period the Government has received 4 thousand 106 MoUs, expression of interest and investment proposals worth Rs. 12 lakhs 10 thousand 464 crores from domestic and foreign investors . An employment of 36 lakhs is expected to be generated after implementation of these proposals. It is a robust step towards industrial development and employment generation in the State.
42. Coir Industry
Recognising the growth potential of coir industry, the Government has recently declared Maharashtra Coir Industry Policy creation of employment opportunities. It is expected that in the next 5 years 8 thousand micro, small and medium industries will be set up in this sector. This will help in generating employment for about 50,000 persons. Also, it will encourage the use of sustainable and environment friendly coir products along with women empowerment. A sum of Rs. 10 crore is being kept as outlay for this initiative.
43. Handicraft Cluster Development
It is the intention of the Government to promote handicraft and preserve traditional industry in the State. For this purpose a scheme is proposed which will cover creation of innovative designs, arrangement for online sale, exhibitions, training, provides raw material required by handicraft artisans etc. This step will help in enhancing capacity of handicraft artisans and to the development of handicraft in the State. For this purpose, an outlay of Rs. 4.28 crores is proposed for the year 2018-19.
44. SantShiromani Gorobakaka Maharashtra Pottery Board
The great saint Gorobakaka atained great spiritual development through devotional path while engaging in pottery for his livelihood. We are Constituting Sant Shiromani Gorobakaka Memorable Matikala Board, at Wardha. This will help skill development and consequent economic development in pottery sector. Various types of support like new technology, skill development, productivity import, infrastructure development marketing support and capital will be made available. A sum of Rs. 10 Crore outlay is kept for this purpose.
45. Skill development of VJNT has been taken up by Deendayal Multipurpose Prasarak Mandali and Sri Vishwakarma Industrial Training Centre , Sangli . An amount of Rs. 2 crore is earmarked for such training. Likewise for the centenary celebrations of Shri Saraswathi Bhuwan Shikshan Sanstha , Aurangabad , an amount of Rs. 2 crore has been earmarked.
46. Package Scheme of Incentive for Industrial development
An outlay of Rs. 2650 crores is proposed for package scheme of incentives for industrial development.
47. Orange Processing
Orange is cultivated in above 1.5 lakh hectares in the State but compared to acreage productivity is low. Therefore, on the lines of Punjab State, it is proposed to set up a ‘citrus estate’ . This will be implemented in Nagpur, Amravati and Akola districts in stages. A sum of Rs. 15 crore is being kept as reserve for this initiative.
48. Law andOrder
It is imperative that the Law and Order situation remains under control for the overall development of the State. This will be achieved by modernization and strengthening of the Police Force and use of modern technology. A provision of Rs. 13,385 crore 3 lakhs is proposed for Home Department in this budget.
49. Visitors Entry Management System in all Police Station of State
A visitor’s entry management system will be implemented in all Police Stations of the State for registration of the visitors coming for lodging complaints. The information regarding whether the complaints of the visitors are addressed in timely manner will be collected and made available to the supervision officer. A sum of Rs.114 crores 99 lakhs is being provided for this in 2018-19.
50. Setting up CCTV in all the police stations in the state
The work of setting of CCTV system in police stations is in progress for speedy and accurate disposal of Law and Order related work and its effective monitoring. All the Police Station in the State will be connected to the district control room via CCTV. An amount of Rs. 165 crores 92 lakhs is being provided in 2018-19 for this purpose.
51. Crime Investigation Computer System
An accurate information of the criminals and crimes is being collected through CCTNS(Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System) project. This enables the exchange of required information amongst concerned police stations as per their need. It will help in keeping proper coordination between forensic laboratory, concerned police station and court and help in speedy investigation. An amount of Rs. 25 crores is provided for this purpose.
52. Patrolling boats for security of fishermen
It is proposed to provide two modern patrol boats for the protection of fisherman along the Maharashtra coast. The necessary funds will be allocated for the same.
Water Supply and Sanitation
53. Chief Minister Rural Sewerage Processing and Management Project
Taking into consideration the serious illnesses that occur due to improper management of sewerage in rural areas, proper management of sewerage is necessary. Waste water must be processed and reused considering the scarcity of potable water in rural areas and its use for other purposes except drinking water. The Government has taken this issue seriously and a decision has been taken to implement Chief Minister Rural Sewerage Processing and Management Project in the villages having population of 15 thousand or more. An outlay of Rs. 335 crores is proposed for this scheme for the year 2018-19.
54. Swachh Bharat Mission
The Government of India has started Swachh Bharat Mission in the country for making available clean environment and good health to all the citizens by making all the cities in the country clean, healthy and habitable. Under this mission of the Central Government, Swachh Maharashtra Mission is being implemented in the urban area which is getting good response from the citizens. Through this mission all the cities in the State have been made defecation-free as on 1.10.2017. The procedure of solid waste management is in progress in accordance with the provisions of solid waste management rules 2016 of the Central Government. Till date, the solid waste management projects worth 1856 crores 36 lakhs in 152 cities have been sanctioned. In 210 cities separation of waste as dry and wet has been started. For this purpose, Rs. 1526 crore outlay is proposed for the year 201819.
55. Green Megacity Compost
Compost fertilizer is being produced in 139 cities of the State from wet waste. For the sale of compost fertilizer a brand namely Green Megacity Compost has been registered. To boost production of compost , the Government intends to give subsidy on the line of Central Government. For this purpose a reserve of Rs. 5 crore is proposed for the year 201819.
56. Amrut Mission
The Government of India is implementing Atal Mission for rejuvenation and urban transformation (AMRUT) for development of basic facilities such as water supply in urban area, drainage and reuse of urban transport sewerage, green belts. This scheme benefits to 44 cities and 76 percent urban population in the state. The Central Government has sanctioned annual action plans worth Rs. 7750 crores under this scheme. It includes 37 water supply projects and 31 sewerage projects in the urban area of the State. The Government intends to complete minimum 10 water supply projects during the year 2018-19 under this mission. For this purpose an outlay of Rs.2310 crores is proposed for the year 2018-19.
57. Smart City Mission
Under Smart City Mission 8 cities in Maharashtra namely Pune, Solapur, Kalyan-Dombivali, Nagpur, Nashik, Thane, Aurangabad and Pimpri-Chinchwad have been selected For this purpose an outlay of Rs 1316 crore is proposed for the year 2018-19.
58. Suvarn Jayanti Nagarotthan Abhiyan
For creation of urban infrastructure facilities in the area of all Municipal Councils and Municipal Panchayats and D-class Municipal Corporations, Maharashtra Suvarn Jayanti Nagarotthan Abhiyan is being implemented. Under this abhiyan 98 projects costing Rs. 5 thousand 423 crore have been sanctioned. Out of this 27 projects worth 1100 crore have been completed. For this purpose an outlay of Rs. 900 crore is proposed for the year 2018-19.
Health
59. NationalHealth Mission
A Government of India sponsored National Health Mission is being implemented in the State to make available good quality health service to the needy, poor and ignored people in rural and urban areas. For this purpose an outlay of Rs. 964 crore is proposed for the year 2018-19.
60. Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Aarogya Abhiyan
For Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Aarogya Abhiyan an outlay of Rs. 576crore 5 lakhs is proposed for the year 201819.
61. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandan Yojana
Pregnant women below poverty line and on the poverty line should not work during the advanced stages of pregnancy. This will control infant and maternal mortality rate. To enable this, an amount of Rs. 5000 is credited directly to the account of beneficiary under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandan Yojana. For this purpose an outlay of Rs. 65 crore is proposed for the year 2018-19.
62. Multispeciality hospital at Sindhudurg
It is proposed to start a multi speciality hospital in Sindhudurg with an investment of about Rs.20 crores. Necessary funds will be made available for this project.
63. Strengtheningand Upgradation of HAFFKINE Institute
For strengthening of HAFFKINE Institute, establishment of National Venom Research Institute, giving fellowship (Scholarship) construction hostel and guesthouse, maintenance of Director’s residence, residences of employees, main building and purchases of minor research equipment’s etc., an amount of Rs.3.50 crores is reserved for the year 201819.
Women and Child Welfare
64. Swadhar Yojana
As per the guidelines of the new Swadhargruh Yojana 2015 of the Central Government, it is proposed to combine the presently operational thirty three short term residential houses and fifty three Swadhar Gruhe and implement ‘Sangatgrastha Mahila Swadhar Griha’, a new scheme for women in distress. An outlay of Rs. 20 crores is proposed as contribution of the State Government during the year 201819.
65. Rural Child Welfare Centers
To overcome malnutrition in the State, the Government has undertaken various schemes over the past few years. It has been decided to start Village Child Development Center (VCDC) for the sixteen districts of the tribal areas and for severe acute malnourished children (SAM) in the non-tribal areas. It is proposed to provide outlay of Rs. 21 crores 19 lakhs for the scheme…
Environment and Forests
66. Morna River Clean Campaign
A campaign to clean the Morna river in Akola city was started on 13 January, 2018. The ordinary citizens, people’s representatives and all others came together and gave a helping hand. Hon. Prime Minister made a mention of this in his ‘Man Ki Baat’ The Government has decided to help this type of initiative and campaign. A sum of Rs. 27 crores is kept under outlay for cleaning and beautification of water bodies.
67. MaharashtraCoastal Management Authority
A conservation plan is proposed for the 6 coastal district of Maharashtra for the management and protection of coastal areas, and to solve the marine crisis. The coastal area management plan will be regulating maritime development works and increase the livelihood opportunities of traditional people in coastal areas. The Authority will also implement eco tourism projects. For this scheme, Rs. 9.40 crore has been proposed for the financial year 2018-19.
68. Tree plantation
The State Government has undertaken a massive tree plantation campaign with a view to mitigate the frequency and severity of rising global temperature and climate change. Under this campaign, on the same day i.e. on July 01, 2016, 2 crore 81 lakh trees were planted in the state. The Limca Book of World Records has taken cognizance of this record. In next year 4 crore trees were planned to be planted from July 01 to July 07, 2017. However, by strong people’s participation, the actual achievement turned to be 5 crores 43 lakhs. The record for the second consecutive year also has been noted by the Limca Book of World Records. In the monsoon season of 2018, it is targeted to plant 13 crores saplings and plant 33 crores in 2019 monsoon. It is necessary for every citizen of the state to participate in the tree plantation campaign and endeavor to protect and nurture the seedlings planted. For this tree plantation campaign, necessary funds shall be made available.
69. Joint Forest Management Program
This scheme is being implemented to ensure maximum participation of local villagers in protection and convergence of forests. An outlay of Rs. 54 crore 68 lakhs is being proposed for the year 2018-19.
70. Forest bunds
For the purpose of soil and water conservation, making available drinking water for wild animals and to reduce the human-wildlife strife, ponds and cement bunds are constructed. An outlay of Rs.11 crores has been proposed for the same during the year 2018-19.
71. Dr. Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Public Forestry Development Scheme
Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Jan Van Vikas Yojana is being implemented for the sustainable development of people-water-forest land in the villages in the buffer zone area. For this an outlay of Rs.100 crores is proposed in this budget.
72. Eco tourism
The state has 6 national parks, 48 sanctuaries and 6 conservation protected zone. There is a great scope for developing eco tourism in these areas and other forest areas. The objectives of protecting biological diversity in the forest and improving livelihood of people is dependant on forest cover. I am earmarking an amount of , Rs. 120 crore for this purpose.
73. Strengthening and modernization of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Government Nursery
Under this scheme, nurseries have been set up for preparation of saplings using modern technology in each district headquarters. Through this the saplings will be provided for plantation on barren lands of progressive farmers and to increase productivity. For this, an outlay of Rs. 40 crores has been proposed for the year 2018-19.
74. Gorevada Zoo
In order to develop eco tourism and to create awareness among urban public about forests, work to develop a zoo of international standards and other linked projects have been planned in Gorevada, Nagpur Dictrict. For this purpose, an outlay of Rs. 20 crores has been proposed for the year 201819.
75. Medicinal Plants
The Government intends to set up adequate number of centres for scientific collection of medicinal plants and herbs, and for their processing, packaging, branding and sale of processed herbal products. For this purpose it is proposed to earmark a sum of Rs. 5 Crore in 2018-19.
Social development
76. Social Justice Department
It is proposed to allocate Rs. 9,949 crore 22 lakhs for schemes for Schedule Castes. Of the same Rs. 2,700 crores is to be given for district level schemes. While Rs. 7,249 crore 22 lakhs is to be given to state level schemes. It is proposed to allocate Rs. 357 crore 99 lakhs for health services, Rs. 700 crores for Ramabai Gharkul Yojana and Rs. 718 crore 59 lakhs for government hostels and Rs. 202 crores 32 lakhs for residential schools.
77. Under the Special Assistance Scheme, financial assistance is provided under the Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Grant Scheme, Shravanbal State Service Pension Scheme, Indira National Old Age Pension Scheme and Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme for old, dependent, widowed and handicap families under poverty line. For this an outlay of Rs. 1,687 crore 79 lakhs has been proposed.
78. A pension of Rs. 600 is being given to people in the age group of 18-65 years having 40% to 80% disability and or multiple disabilities under the state-sponsored Shravanbal Pension Yojana. It is proposed to increase the monthly pension to Rs. 800 for those with 40% to 80% disability and to Rs.1000 per month for those with disability above 80%..
79. New plan for Divyang Children
For the effective implementation of the provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act and to reduce the disability of children in the age group of 0-5 years who are hearing impaired or suffer from multiple disabilities or are mentally challenged, I am announcing “Hoy Karnbadir Balak Bolu Shaktat” for the deaf children and “Shighra Nidhan Va Hastakshep Yojana” for children with multiple disabilities to help in attaining general school education, due to the reduction in the number of disabled and multi-disciplinary and intellectual disabilities children between 0 and 5 years of age, and for “multi-lingual and intellectual disability children” Plan “I have declared these two new plans. For these schemes, appropriate provision is proposed to be made in the financial year 2018-19.
80. Memorial of Krantiveer Lahuji Vastad Salve
It is proposed to construct a memorial for Krantiveer Lahuji Vastad Salve at :Pune in remembrance of his inspirational work and required funds shall be made available for the same.
81. Karmaveer Dadasaheb Gaikwad Sablikaran and Swabhiman Yojana Bharat Ratna Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Social Development Scheme
Under “Karmaveer Dadasaheb Gaikwad Empowerment and Swabhiman” scheme, people belonging to landless and below poverty line Scheduled Caste and Navbuddha constituencies are allocated land purchased by the government. Currently, under this scheme, four acres of non-irrigated land, or two acres of irrigated land is allocated within the limit of Rs. 3 lakhs per acre. The support is in form of 50% loan and 50% subsidy . Now it is proposed to increase the financial limit and increase the limit of subsidy under the scheme.
It is proposed to launch Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Social Development Scheme for providing basic facilities in settlements of Schedule Tribes and Navbuddha communities.
82. It is proposed to provide grant of Rs. 2 Crores for expansion and renovation of People’s Education Society’s Hostel and Convocation center established at Nagsenvan by Dr. Babsaheb Ambedkar.
83. Mobilestores for specially abled
To promote self reliance amongst the specially abled in the state, it is proposed to provide free of cost eco-friendly mobile stalls. For this purpose, an outlay of Rs. 25 crore is being earmarked in 2018-19.
84. Saarthi
The setting up of “Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj Research, Training and Human Development Institute” was announced in the previous budget for focusing on social, economic, educational development issues of Vimukta Jatis, Nomadic Tribes, Other Backward Classes and Special Backward Classes in the State. A sum of Rs. 5 Crores is set aside for this purpose.
85. Punyaslok Ahilyabhai Holkar Samajik Sabhgrugha
Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar has provided a proud legacy of social development to Maharashtra., She made many improvements in state for welfare of the people. She built ponds, canals, temples and dharamshalas for the happiness and peace of the subjects. It is the government’s intention to build community halls at different places in Maharashtra in her name to foster her memory. For this an outlay of Rs. 30 Crores is being made during the year 2018-19.
86. Tribal Development Department
An outlay of Rs. 8,969 crore 5 lakhs for the tribal planning program is proposed. Under this scheme, Rs. 150 crores is allocated under Indira Awaas Yojana and Shabri Adivasi Gharkul Yojana, Rs. 300 Crores for development of roads, Rs. 10 crore for electrification, Rs. 7 crores and 77 lakhs for public health, Rs. 41 Crores for Golden Jubilee Scholarship and Rs. 275 Crores for Government of India scholarships.
87. BharatRatna Dr. A.P.J.Abdul Kalam Amrit Aahar Yojana Phase No. 2
To overcome malnutrition problems in tribal areas, Government started “Bharat Ratna Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Amrit Aahar Yojana “. Due to success of the first phase the scheme is expanded and the second phase of the scheme is being launched. Under this yojana, pregnant women and lactating mothers will be provided with one balanced meal for 6 days of the week. 1,22,142 women will be given benefit of this scheme every month and 6,98,654 children will be provided eggs and bananas for 4 days a week. For this, Rs. 15 crores is proposed to be allocated during the year 2018-19.
88. Distribution of funds to Gram Panchayats under PESA Act.
As an effort to strengthen Panchayat Raj institutions, PESA Gram Panchayats in tribal areas are provided up to 5% of the total Tribal sub plan every year. An amount of Rs. 267 Crores 88 Lakhs has been earmarked for 2018-19.
89. Admissionin prominent residential schools
Prominent Residential School Scheme has been launched for providing education to tribal students through English medium along with other students. So far 51 thousand students of Scheduled Tribes have been enrolled in English medium schools. It is proposed to allocate Rs. 378 Crores for the scheme.
90. Shamrao Peje Konkan Other Backward Class Development Corporation
“Shamrao Peje Konkan Other Backward Classes Financial Development Corporation” is a subsidiary of Maharashtra State Other Backward Classical Finance and Development Corporation for Konkan division. For the year 2018-19, a provision of Rs.11 crore 25 lakhs is proposed as capital contribution and an additional share capital of Rs.25 crore will be made available to this corporation.
91. Development of Minorities
In the year 2018-19, it is proposed to allocate Rs 350 Crore for various minority welfare schemes in the state. This will cover ongoing schemes like renewal of Madarsa yojana, Maulana Azad Free Scholarship yojana, free food for minority girls undergoing higher education, training centres for police recruitment etc.
92. Development of infrastructure in the minority dominant rural areas
A provision of Rs. 38 Crores is proposed for the development of infrastructure in minority dominant rural areas in the year 2018-19.
Housing for All -2022:
93. Prime Minister Awas Yojana
The government has decided to implement the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna – Houses for all 2022” with some modifications. Similarly, the interest subsidy scheme will be implemented by the banks across the state. The objective of the scheme is to construct 1.59 lakh houses in 2018-19. A provision of Rs. 1,750 crore 50 lakhs has been proposed for this scheme in the year 2018-19.
Under this scheme, there is a list of 10 lakhs registered beneficiaries in rural areas. Out of this 4 lakh houses are in various stages of completion. It is proposed to allocate Rs. 1,140 Crore 35 lakhs during the year 2018-19.
Food and Civil Supplies
94. Computerizationof Public Distribution System
The Central Government has decided to computerize the public distribution system. Rs. 5 Crore 41 lakhs is proposed for the said scheme during the year 2018-19. Consequent to linking of aadhar card with ration card, about 10 lakh ration card were found erroneous and have been cancelled. Simultaneously, 92 lakh new needy beneficiaries have been provided ration cards till September 2016.
95. Benefits of food security to farmers below the poverty line
In 14 district under Aurangabad, Nagpur and Amravati divisions of the state, food grains are supplied to farmers below the poverty line at a highly concessional rate of Rs. 2 and Rs. 3 per kilo for rice and wheat respectively. It is proposed to allocate Rs. 922 Crores 68 lakhs for the said scheme during the year 2018-19.
Tourism & Cultural Activities and Memorials of Great Personalities
96. Protection, preservation and promotion of sculptures
There are many historic stone age archaelogical findings in various Konkan locations, which will through new light on the region’s history. Approximately 400 sculptures have been found in Ratnagiri district till date. It is necessary to protect them for both research and tourism development. If these destinations are protected it will be possible to promote tourism in interior regions along with the beaches .For this purpose it is proposed to have an outlay of Rs.24 crores. Further, it is proposed to reserve Rs. 5 crores in 2018-19.for construction and beautification of Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya in Satara.
97. Development of tourism in Sindhudurg
Unique underwater environment is available at Nivati Rock in Vengurla taluka of Sindhudurg district. To make this unique location accessible to tourists, India’s first battery operated submarine shall be made available at Sindhudurg. The underwater tourism via submarine shall be of world class. This will attract large number of domestic and international tourists to Sindhudurg and tourism related employment opportunities shall be created.
98. Sale of Memorabilia (Souvenir Shop)
Many domestic and international tourists visit museums during their travel. In developed countries souvenir shops are set up for selling memorabilia in museums. Similarly, it is proposed to set up souvenir shops for selling memorabilia to tourists/visitors in state museums. The memorabilia shall include artifacts, replica of collectible coins pictures of memorials, paper weight etc. Replica of artifacts shall be created using modern techniques. It is proposed to have an outlay of Rs. 7 Crores for the same in 2018-19.
99. 3D Mapping of protected Forts
The main feature of this scheme shall be to determine the boundaries of forts as per government records, determine the regions under government control and areas in private hands, mapping of fort using GIS, use of various modern techniques for documentation of forts, to collate accurate data regarding location, height, geographical information etc. of forts, to record historical remnants in forts. It is proposed to allocate necessary funds for the same during the year 201819.
100. Ganpatipule Development Plan
Ganpatipule is a famous tourist destination in Ratnagiri district. It has become popular tourist destination due to 400 old Swayambhu Ganesh Murti and temple, beautiful beaches and evergreen forests. A development plan of Rs. 79 crores is proposed for development of Ganpatipule as tourist destination and generating employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. A sum of Rs. 20 crore is reserved in the year 2018-19 for the development of this tourist destination.
Additionally, a development plan is being created to develop a tourist destination at Machal in taluka Lanja, district Ratnagiri and necessary funds shall be allocated for the same.
101. RamtekPilgrimage Centre Development Plan
Ramtek occupies a special position in minds of devotees due to its association with Lord Ram. Further, Kalidas’ famous play ‘Meghdoot’ was written in this place. In view of its mythological and historic importance of Ramtek the Government has approved plan of Rs. 150 crores for development of Ramtek and Rs. 25 crore is reserved during the year 2018-19.
102. Sindhudurg Fort protection
The Sea-forts built by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj for protection of coastal areas are still standing. The Sindhudurg fort at Malvan is an excellent example of the same. The Central Government has declared this fort as a protected monument in Maharashtra. This fort is almost 350 years old. It is our responsibility to protect this fort which has enriched our history. For the conservation of Sindhudurg Fort, Rs. 10 crores is being reserved.
103. Fossil museums
Recently ancient fossils were discovered at Sironcha in Gadchiroli district. A museum shall be established at Sironcha. to preserve, protect and study fossils For this purpose , Rs. 5 crores is being allocated during the year 2018-19.
104. Increase in Grants for Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya and Natya Samellan
The annual grant in aid of Rs.25 lakhs for Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Sahitya samellan and Akhil Bharatiya Marathi Natya Samellan is being doubled to Rs. 50 lakhs from 2018-19. A sum of Rs. 3 crores is being provided to support various cultural and literary activities.
105. Heritage tourism, Mumbai Shopping festival and Chetak festival
The heritage tourism policy for the state is under preparation. Accordingly, allocation shall be made in the state budget for building basic infrastructure to develop heritage tourism in the state.
The Mumbai shopping festival was organised during January 2018. It is proposed to organise this event every year. Similarly, in the year 2016-17, Chetak festival was organised at Mouje Sarankheda in taluka Shahada in district Nandurbar. It is proposed to organise this festival every year. Funds shall be allocated to attract tourist to these festivals.
106. Celebration of birth centenary and death centenary of renowned literary figures
In remembrance of the birth centenary of renowned literacy figures namely P. L. Deshpande and G.D. Madgulkar and the death centenary of Ram Ganesh Gadkari, functions will be arranged. For this purpose a sum of Rs. 5 crore is being reserved in 2018-19. Likewise it is proposed to have memorial for poet Mangesh Padgaonkar at Vengurla, District Sindhudurg, . Likewise it is proposed to have a memorial for renowned playwright and actor Machindra Kambli in Sindhudurg District. It is also proposed to have a memorial for G.D.Madgulkar in village Shetphali, Atpadi Taluka, District Sangli. The necessary funds for these memorials will be made available.
Labour department
107. Autorickshaw Driver Welfare Corporation
The State has up to 20 lakh autorickshaw drivers. Therefore, it is proposed to set-up Maharashtra State Autorickshaw Driver Welfare Corporation to provide a platform to address their problems and provide solutions. An amount of Rs.5 crore is being reserved in the year 2018-19 for this new initiative.
Good governance
108. Simplification of service matters
The Government intends to implement computerised ‘Services facilitation management system’ with the aim to manage the service matters of government employees at all stages from induction up to retirement. For this purpose a provision of Rs. 23 crore is proposed in 2018-19.
109. Sukarmi Award Scheme
Many good officers and employees are working sincerely and doing meritorious work in various government departments. To encourage their work and motivate them to do better in the future, a new scheme “Sukarmi Award Scheme” is being started.
110. Seventh Pay Commission
The Central Government has implemented the revised pay scale with effect from 1st January, 2016 for its employees as per recommendation of the Seventh Pay Commission. The State Government has already indicated to give revised pay scales for it employees and pensioners with effect from 1st January, 2016. Accordingly, the Bakshi Committee has been constituted. On receipt of its report, the Seventh Pay Commission will be implemented. for state government employees in the state. Adequate provision has been kept in the budget to meet this requirement.
111. e-Governance Project
The Central Government is implementing various projects under the National E-Governance initiative. In order that rural areas get benefit of e-education, e-health and the IT based facilities, about 14,000 Gram Panchayats have already been linked under Bharat Net programme phase I. Further 13,000 GP’s will be covereed under phase II. For this an outlay of Rs.114 crore 99lakhs is being made in 2018-19.
112. Driving Test Track.
It is proposed to construct computerized test tracks’ in the various transport offices for drivers. For this purpose a sum of Rs. 20.12 crores is being proposed in 2018-19.
113. Digital India, modernization of land records
The Government has decided to digitize about 95 lakh 75 thousand land record maps and about approximately 4 crore 80 lakhs polygons in the state. In the first phase, digitization of land records in the six districts of the state is in progress and digitization of about 5 lakh 92 thousand polygons has been completed out of approximately 1 crore 46 million polygons. It is proposed to complete the work by June 2018. The state government intends to allocate Rs. 151 crores in the year 2018-19 for complete digitization of land records in 28 districts.
114. PublicDialogue Center
It is the need of the hour to effectively disseminate government messages and create public awareness about government schemes. In addition to implementing good schemes, it is necessary to effectively and efficiently inform beneficiaries of these schemes in a timely manner. The Government has decided to launch “Lok Sanwad” for redressing the grievances, creating awareness about Government Schemes and for providing solutions to citizens. We will make available a toll-free number to citizens for obtaining all relevant information related to government. Further, farmers will be given guidance on good agricultural practices, government schemes and the information support, free of cost, on their request through a missed call.
115. Macroeconomic review and state’s income
According to the prevailing price, the state’s nominal net income is Rs. 19 lakh 86 thousand 806 crore in 2016-17. This is an increase of 13.4 percent over the previous year. The estimated per capita income of Maharashtra is 1 lakh 65 thousand 491 rupees in 2016-17, whereas the estimated per capita national income is Rs. 1,03,870.
116. Provisions for Schemes 2018-19
Plan expenditure for 2018-19 as per new methodology is Rs. 95,000 crores as compare to allocation of 77,184 crore during the year 2017-18. I would like to mention here that, in comparison to the previous year’s scheme, the provision has been increased by Rs.17,816 crore, an increase of 23.08 percentage over the previous year.
117. Financial Position of the State
While presenting the budget during March 2017, revenue income of Rs. 2,43,738 Crores was anticipated on basis of the revenue collections during the year. However, based on the revenue collection during the year, the revised estimate of Rs. 2,57,605 Crores has been determined. During the year 2018-19, a revenue income is Rs. 2,85,968 Crores and revenue expenditure of Rs. 3,01,343 Crores is being projected. Consequently, there will a revenue deficit of Rs. 15,375 Crores. I shall try to minimize the deficit by reducing avoidable expenditure and effective recovery of revenue.
I assure the people of the state through this august house that we shall do our best to achieve the objectives that we have set for development of the state.
Now I turn to PART-II of the budget.
Budget Speech Part-II
Speaker Sir,
I now present Part II of the Budget before the House.
1. Revised target of revenue collection for the year 2017-18 is rupees one lakh sixty four thousand nine hundred seventy eight crores. I am confident that this revenue target shall be achieved.
2. Goods and Services Tax
You are aware that from 1st July 2017, Goods and Services Tax System, which has radically changed the indirect tax regime, has been adopted throughout India. The GST aim of “ One Tax One Nation” has given boost to cooperative federalism. Tax base was expected to grow substantially under the GST system with long lasting impact on the Indian economy. After the implementation of GST, the number of tax payers in Maharashtra has increased significantly. In the State, 5,32,000 tax payers are newly registered taking the number of tax payers under GST to 13,62,000. At the end of February 2018, revenue under GST has been garnered at rupees 45,886 crores.
3. Compensationto Local authorities
Honourable Members must be aware that the local authorities have lost the power to collect octroi and local body tax due to implementation of GST. In this regard, Act to give compensation to the local authorities, has been passed by the legislature. As per the provisions in the Act, the Government has disbursed compensation amount in the form of advance to the local authorities before fifth of every month. In the year 2017-18, rupees 5,826 crores to the Brihan Mumbai Municipal Corporation and rupees 5,978 crores to other municipal bodies, totalling rupees 11,804 crores has been given as compensation.
4. Amendments to Tax Laws
Speaker Sir, I am proposing some changes in the Tax Laws.
> Value Added Tax Act
♦ Under the VAT Act, an appeal against an order passed by the appellate authority can be filed before the Sales Tax Tribunal. Judicial Members and Technical Members are appointed to the Tribunal. A provision is proposed that the Judicial Member shall be appointed in consultation with the Honourable High Court while the Technical Member shall be appointed or reappointed on the recommendations of the Selection Committee, constituted by the Government. At the same time, it is also proposed to make a provision for the members’ term and the functioning of the Selection Committee.
♦ On the assumption that Extra Neutral Alcohol (ENA) is classified under VAT, levy on sale of ENA had been introduced in the VAT Act from 24th August 2017. The GST Council would take a decision soon, on the issue as to whether the ENA is covered under GST or not. A provision is proposed to be made regarding classification of ENA and tax thereon with consequential interest based on the decision of GST Council.
♦ Under VAT, it is mandatory for an employer to pay the TDS amount from the amount payable to the contractor. The contractor can take credit of the TDS. There is no facility to avail TDS credit, paid by the employer, after the implementation of GST. Therefore, a provision has been proposed to allow credit of TDS amount, paid during the period from 1st July 2017 to 31st December 2018, to the contractor.
♦ In VAT, there is a provision for non-recovery of dues upto rupees 100. A provision is proposed for non-recovery of tax up-to rupees 500 per proceeding and the interest payable thereon so that the manpower can be used for the recovery of larger amounts.
♦ If an assessment proceeding is to be transferred from one district to another, then transfer of assessment proceeding order is required to be passed after giving opportunity of hearing to the dealer. But if such case is in Mumbai, Thane, Raigad and the case is to be transferred to any of these districts, then hearing is not required. Due to the formation of Palghar District, it is proposed to make a technical change in the provision.
♦ Under the VAT Act, filing audit report is mandatory for a dealer, whose turnover exceeds rupees 1 crore. VAT registration of most of the dealers has been cancelled with effect from the 1st July 2017, due to introduction of GST. The turnover under VAT of these dealers for the year 201718, would be considered for the first three months only. Hence, it is proposed that the turnover limit for audit of these dealers would be considered at rupees 25 lakh.
♦ To implement GST effectively, it is necessary to complete the VAT work expeditiously. In this regard, in VAT Act, there is a provision to notify the scheme. As per the notification, the Commissioner can select cases for assessment or for other processes. If a dealer files an appeal against the selection process undertaken by the Commissioner, then disposal could be delayed. Therefore, it is proposed that appeal cannot be filed against the case selection process.
> Goods and Services Tax Act
♦ For the purposes of the GST Act, there is a provision for appointment of officers on various posts. As there is no express mention of the post of State Tax Officer, it is proposed to mention it in the provision accordingly.
> Profession Tax Act
♦ It is proposed to include limited liability partnership (LLP) entities in the class of persons liable to pay Profession Tax.
♦ Every professional is required to obtain enrolment certificate and pay Profession Tax. The responsibility to collect Profession Tax from the professionals and pay it to the Government, shall be entrusted to the organizations, authorities with whom such professionals are engaged in economic activities. It is proposed to empower the Government to issue notification, in this regard.
♦ An enrolled person is required to pay Profession Tax every year upto the age of 65 years whereas other professional entities are required to pay Profession Tax every year till the profession is continued. It is proposed to announce an attractive scheme to allow One-Time Payment of Tax (OTPT)at a concessional rate, instead of paying tax every year.
♦ To make effective recoveries, it is proposed that the recovery provisions under the GST may be made applicable to recoveries under Profession Tax.
♦ To ensure optimum utilization of manpower, it is proposed to delegate certain statutory powers to the inspector.
♦ Gathering information from various organizations becomes necessary to trace the persons liable to tax for effective collection of Profession Tax revenue. Accordingly, it is proposed to empower the Commissioner to collect such information by issuing notification.
Speaker Sir, I hope that Honourable Members shall support the proposals.
Jai Hind ! Jai Maharashtra !!
