Mumbai, April 13 (NationPress) The Maharashtra cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has given the green light for the Indian Education Society (IES) to establish a private, self-financing IES Skill Tech University in Bandra.

The university is expected to commence its operations in the academic year 2026–27, with a primary focus on providing specialised skill training to address the employment-supply gap.

Additionally, the cabinet has decided to extend the Aspirational District Programme to six more districts: Hingoli, Jalna, Palghar, Beed, Dhule, and Parbhani. This expansion will now include a total of 177 tehsils, adding 150 new ones to the previous count of 27.

The programme will concentrate on key areas such as health, nutrition, education, and digital infrastructure, leveraging District Annual Plans and Corporate Social Responsibility funds.

Moreover, the cabinet approved amendments to the Maharashtra Medical Council Act of 1965, changing the appointment method for members to a state government selection rather than an electoral process.

The total number of council members will rise from 18 to 23, ensuring a more balanced representation of experts and a transparent, merit-based selection process.

As per the government announcement, the cabinet has also sanctioned funding of Rs 61.24 crore from NABARD's Rural Infrastructure Development Fund for essential facilities at fish landing centres. This decision will benefit the districts of Thane, Raigad, Sindhudurg, Palghar, and Ratnagiri.

This funding plan includes areas such as Divaale Gaon, Vijaydurg, Dhakti Dahanu, among others. The state government will cover 5% of the costs, while NABARD will contribute the remaining 95%.

In a related announcement, CM Fadnavis revealed that the state government will take the initiative to establish a music institute, honouring the vision of the late Asha Bhosle.

This decision was communicated during a State Cabinet meeting, where members paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary playback singer.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar along with other cabinet members.

CM Fadnavis noted that Asha Bhosle had earlier proposed the establishment of an institution dedicated to music, underscoring the government's commitment to actualising this vision.

During the session, Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal read the official condolence motion, commemorating Asha Bhosle's remarkable contributions to the arts and culture.

The cabinet observed a moment of silence to honour her legacy, acknowledging her as a monumental figure in India's musical heritage.