Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar signed the final approval on the MLA Local Development Fund file on Tuesday. This signature marked the last of his administrative career, and as a result of this decision, a total of 1,354 crore rupees have been made available for the MLA development fund. Ajit Pawar's decision has provided significant relief to the development works of MLAs across the state.
While signing this file, Ajit Pawar proposed the concept of a new online system called 'E-Samarth' for the distribution of MLA development funds and implemented it. Currently, the distribution of MP development funds is done entirely online through the 'E-Sakshi' system. Ajit Pawar had taken the stance that there should be a separate and transparent digital system for MLAs as well. Accordingly, the complete preparation of the 'E-Samarth' system was completed.
The inauguration of this system was to take place next month in Pune. However, in the unfortunate plane crash on January 28, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and five others died, leaving the inauguration of this ambitious project incomplete. Nevertheless, as a legacy of his vision, the 'E-Samarth' system will soon be operational.
Initially, development funds will be distributed to 24 MLAs in Pune through the 'E-Samarth' system. This includes 21 members of the Legislative Assembly and three members of the Legislative Council. After successful implementation in Pune, this system will be applied throughout the state. In the future, the development funds for all MLAs will be distributed through this online system.
Under this system, each MLA will be given a separate 'e-login ID', through which they can recommend development works in their constituency. Also, the funds for the work done by contractors will be directly deposited into their accounts, thereby increasing transparency.
A provision of 2,200 crore rupees was made for the financial year 2025-26 under the MLA Local Development Program. Out of this, 660 crore rupees have already been distributed through the 'BIMS' system. Currently, 944.62 crore rupees are available from the finance department, and a total of 1,354 crore rupees, including the previous balance, have been handed over to the district collectors of the respective districts. This fund will be used for the development works of the MLAs of the Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council.