Mumbai

The Maharashtra Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has approved the postponement of elections for Zilla Parishad and Panchayat Samiti leaders. The terms of Presidents, Vice Presidents, and Chairmen of these local bodies, set to expire in October-November 2024, will be extended by 120 days. This delay is in line with the provisions of the Maharashtra Zilla Parishads and Panchayat Samitis Act, 1961, and comes ahead of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections expected in November. The postponement ensures that election preparations won’t interfere with the administration’s duties during the assembly polls.

An ordinance for the postponement will be issued soon. The decision aims to prevent any administrative burden or law and order issues during the overlap of the local and state elections.

In addition, the Cabinet approved the implementation of the Centre’s Agristack digital Mission Scheme, allocating ₹81.83 crore for its rollout. The scheme will use digital databases to help farmers’ access government benefits more efficiently.

The Cabinet also amended the Maharashtra Public Libraries Act, expanding the definition of books to include e-resources. They extended the deadline for applying for new colleges and courses to October 31 and included three new universities in the state’s official list.