The Maharashtra Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, approved a series of policy decisions on Wednesday, including a comprehensive Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy, a major green energy programme, and measures in education, environment, and social welfare.
Maharashtra AI Policy 2026 Targets Rs 10,000 Crore Investment
The Cabinet approved the Maharashtra AI Policy 2026, aimed at accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence across industries, governance, and public services. The policy sets a target of attracting over Rs 10,000 crore in investment and generating more than 1.5 lakh jobs by 2031.
Modelled on the India AI Mission, the policy focuses on research, innovation, and responsible deployment of AI technologies. The government also plans to train around 2 lakh youth and professionals in AI-related skills.
A seven-pillar framework underpins the policy, including the development of statewide AI infrastructure, creation of AI-focused innovation clusters, and the establishment of a State AI Data Exchange. It also proposes a dedicated Maharashtra AI Mission and a Centre for Advanced AI Training.
To support industry adoption, the state will offer incentives such as a 20 per cent subsidy for MSMEs adopting AI and the creation of a Rs 500 crore startup fund, jointly backed by the government and industry. Additional benefits include capital subsidies, stamp duty exemptions, and financial support for patents and certifications.
Ambedkar Chair Approved at London School of Economics
In a move aimed at promoting global academic research, the Cabinet approved the establishment of a chair in the name of B. R. Ambedkar at the London School of Economics.
The initiative will be supported by a one-time grant of Rs 37 crore and will include 10 doctoral scholarships of four years each, starting from the 2027–28 academic year. The programme will focus on interdisciplinary research related to social justice, constitutional democracy, and economic equality.
Green Maharashtra Commission to Drive Tree Plantation Target
The Cabinet also approved the formation of a Green Maharashtra Commission to oversee an ambitious plan to plant 300 crore trees by 2047. The initiative aims to increase the state’s forest and tree cover from the current 21.25 per cent to 33 per cent.
The programme is expected to contribute to climate resilience, biodiversity conservation, and soil and water improvement, while also generating employment in rural areas.
Rs 12,303 Crore Green Energy Scheme Cleared
A major push to renewable energy was announced with the approval of the Rs 12,303 crore MAGESTIC scheme. The project aims to raise the share of renewable energy in the state’s power mix from 17 per cent to 50 per cent by 2030.
The plan includes the construction of 40 new substations, grid modernisation, and the deployment of battery energy storage systems with a capacity of 16,000 MWh. Funding will be sourced through a mix of World Bank loans and state power utilities.
Scholarships Enhanced for Students with Disabilities
After more than a decade, the Cabinet approved a significant increase in scholarships for students with disabilities. The revised scheme covers tuition and other educational expenses, along with enhanced monthly assistance and additional support for visually impaired students.
Education and Tribal Welfare Measures
The Cabinet sanctioned 2.5 hectares of land in Ratnagiri district for the establishment of a new Kendriya Vidyalaya, aimed at improving access to quality education in the Konkan region.
Additionally, a revised assured career progression scheme was approved for non-teaching staff in aided tribal ashram schools. The scheme will benefit over 7,500 employees across 556 institutions and will be implemented retrospectively from January 1, 2024.
