Plethora Of Schemes For Dharashiv’s Development Initiated By Maharashtra Govt

After Eknath Shinde assumed the role of Chief Minister, he accelerated various development initiatives across the state, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects.

He took up the completion of projects delayed during the tenure of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government, ensuring the successful completion of projects like Atal Setu and the Mumbai Metro, some of which were partially operationalised.

Photo Credit: PTI

During Shinde's administration, the Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train project also gained momentum. While prioritising urban development, Shinde also focused on extending various facilities to rural areas.

Dharashiv is a major district in Marathwada, where two strong supporters of Eknath Shinde-MLAs Dnyanraj Chougule and Tanaji Sawant-represent Paranda and Umarga Lohara constituencies. Both constituencies received substantial funding, yet Shinde's administration has ensured continued development throughout the entire district.

Emphasis on Irrigation

In Dharashiv district, a water conservation project has been implemented across the region from Benitura's origin to the Sangam area. Under this initiative, 34 FRP check dams have been constructed, and substantial funds were sanctioned by the state government. This project has brought approximately 68 hectares of land under irrigation and prevented around 217,194 cubic metres of water from flowing into Karnataka.

Additionally, funds of ₹4.25 billion were allocated for internal road construction in the cities of Umarga, Lohara, and Murum. The government also provided ₹35 million for a public crematorium in Umarga, serving both Maratha and Dhangar communities. An additional ₹80 million was granted for beautification projects in Umarga.

The revered Balasaheb Thackeray Shivjal Kranti Yojana, implemented in Dharashiv district, benefited over 250 villages. Through this scheme, 700 kilometres of work have been completed, increasing water storage capacity by four TMC and raising groundwater levels by over 12 TMC. The Krishna Marathwada Lift Irrigation Scheme has also drawn ₹11.723 billion in funding, ensuring seven TMC of water for the region.

Focus on Healthcare and Women's Empowerment

To improve healthcare, state funds of ₹60 million each were sanctioned for constructing modern primary healthcare centres in Makhani and Kanegaon in Lohara Taluka. The Sparsh Rural Hospital in Sasur has been upgraded to a sub-district hospital, and a similar upgrade has been achieved at the health centre in Gunjoti, Umarga Taluka.

With the efforts of MLA and Minister Tanaji Sawant, the Kranti Mahila Udyog Group was established in Dharashiv district. This group has facilitated household items, food products, and decorative goods production, providing employment opportunities for over 20,000 women and generating significant revenue. Additionally, Sawant has donated 120 digital boards in Bhum, Paranda, and Washi Talukas, training over 400 teachers in their usage.

Sports Complexes in Every Taluka

Dharashiv is Maharashtra's only district with approved sports complexes in every taluka, with an annual budget of ₹280-300 million dedicated to sports complex development. State funds of ₹27 million have also been allocated for the development of school playgrounds and sports equipment.

Support for Farmers

Agriculture is the primary occupation in Dharashiv district, and in 2024, following state government intervention, the Indian Agriculture Insurance Company agreed to pay compensation of ₹2.32 billion for crop damage in the 2022 Kharif season. As Dharashiv falls in a rain shadow area, the state government has sanctioned land acquisition for the Nimna Khairi Project, Dindegaon Irrigation Project, and Jam Reservoir to address water scarcity.

The Asian Development Bank has approved a loan of ₹12 billion, and plans are underway to construct a 500-bed district hospital in Dharashiv, which will enhance the district's healthcare facilities. The proposed Kavadgaon Textile Industrial Project in 2023 is expected to generate 10,000 employment opportunities. Various state and central government schemes are being expedited, with a particular focus on agriculture and irrigation.