In the first Maharashtra Cabinet meeting after the Budget session, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on April 1, 2025, a major policy on electric bike taxis was approved to benefit solo commuters across the state. Proposed by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the policy focuses on affordability and safety—especially for women—by including features such as a partition between the front and pillion riders and a roof for protection during the monsoon. Aimed at promoting eco-friendly transport, the initiative is expected to generate 10,000 jobs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and 20,000 jobs statewide. Additionally, children of auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers associated with certified corporations will receive ₹10,000 aid to apply for e-bike taxi permits. The policy is based on recommendations from a committee led by Ramnath Jha.
Maharashtra Clears Key Infra and AI Policing Projects
The Cabinet also made key decisions for the tribal district of Gadchiroli, including the establishment of the Gadchiroli District Mineral Foundation and the approval of the Wadsa-Desaiganj-Gadchiroli railway project. The foundation aims to foster an industrial ecosystem to attract both ultra mega and MSME projects. A new authority to oversee the district’s mineral sector was approved, chaired by the Chief Minister and supported by an executive committee led by the Chief Secretary. The State approved ₹1,886.05 crore in administrative expenditure for the railway project, with Maharashtra contributing 50% (₹943.025 crore).
Other notable approvals include the establishment of MARVEL (Maharashtra Research and Vigilance for Enhanced Law Enforcement) to incorporate artificial intelligence in policing and law enforcement. Funding was also sanctioned for regional development projects: ₹161.12 crore for the Nagthan Medium Project in Nandurbar district, over ₹58 crore for three Sindphana river projects, and ₹79.71 lakh in incentive grants for 500 farmers in Murbad taluk, Thane district. These decisions reflect the State’s focus on sustainable infrastructure, job creation, and tech-enabled governance.
Summary:
The Maharashtra Cabinet approved an e-bike taxi policy focused on women’s safety, eco-friendly transport, and job creation. Key infra projects in Gadchiroli, AI-based law enforcement under MARVEL, and funding for regional development were also cleared, highlighting the State’s commitment to sustainability, employment, and tech-driven governance.
