Demands for skill development in sectors like tourism in Konkan, veterinary services in rural Maharashtra and horticulture in Nashik, and Sangli and the health sector are likely to reflect in the fort
Demands for skill development in sectors like tourism in Konkan, veterinary services in rural Maharashtra and horticulture in Nashik, and Sangli and the health sector are likely to reflect in the forthcoming state budget.
The state government has focused on reforms in financial issues and taking in consideration views of bureaucrats as well as collectors, elected representatives from state legislature (MLAs), municipal corporations, municipal council and even from zilla parishads over innovative ideas.
State finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar has appealed to the people to suggest ideas and has also announced a cash reward for innovative suggestions that will be included in upcoming budget.
Speaking with this newspaper, Bijay Kumar, principal secretary (finance reforms) said that they are receiving suggestions from government officials as well as from elected members. “The meeting of Konkan and Aurangabad region was recently held in which all collectors of the respected districts from the region and elected members were present. The meeting was chaired by finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar,” Mr Bijay Kumar said.
He further stated that while the meeting of Nagpur division was held on Monday, the ones for Nashik, Pune and Amravati divisions would be held very soon. “The ideas that will be suggested in the meeting will be considered in final meeting of the finance department for the budget,” he said.
Also discussed in the meeting were ideas on how to develop tourism in the Konkan region, said a senior official from the finance department.
Commenting about the ideas were put up at the meeting an official said, “For example, a housekeeping woman could be trained as a beautician so that she can earn more money from tourists and it will also help her financially.”
The official further said that in Konkan, tourists prefer to stay with local families and have food made at their homes. If this process is handled in a professional matter, such businesses will get a major boost.
Another suggestion from the Aurangabad division was to train youths as veterinary specialists. There is a demand for such specialists in the rural areas and with sufficient training in the field, the youths can practise professionally and earn money as well.
