Mumbai, April 13 (AHN) The Maharashtra cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, on Monday approved the Indian Education Society (IES) to establish a private, self-financed IES Skill Tech University in Bandra. ​

It is slated to begin operations in the 2026–27 academic year, focusing on specialised skill training to bridge the employment-supply gap.​

Further, the cabinet approved expanding the Aspirational District Programme to six new districts: Hingoli, Jalna, Palghar, Beed, Dhule, and Parbhani. The programme will now cover a total of 177 tehsils (adding 150 new ones to the existing 27). ​

Focus areas will include health, nutrition, education, and digital infrastructure, utilising District Annual Plans and Corporate Social Responsibility funds.​

The cabinet also approved amendments to the Maharashtra Medical Council Act, 1965. As per the proposed changes, members will now be appointed by the state government rather than elected. ​

The number of members will increase from 18 to 23, ensuring balanced representation of experts and transparent, merit-based selection.​

According to the government release, the cabinet also cleared funding of Rs 61.24 crore from NABARD’s Rural Infrastructure Development Fund for basic facilities at fish landing centres. Thane, Raigad, Sindhudurg, Palghar and Ratnagiri districts will benefit from today’s decision. ​

Under this funding plan, Divaale Gaon, Vijaydurg, Dhakti Dahanu and others are included. The state government will contribute 5 per cent, while NABARD will provide 95 per cent of the funding.​

Meanwhile, CM Fadnavis announced that the state government will take proactive steps to establish a music institute in line with the vision of the late Asha Bhosle. ​

The decision was shared during a State Cabinet meeting, where members paid a solemn and heartfelt tribute to the iconic playback singer. ​

The meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar and other members of the state cabinet.​

CM Fadnavis highlighted that the late Ashatai had previously submitted a proposal to establish an institution dedicated to music.

He stated that the government remains committed to advancing this proposal and will take every necessary step to ensure that the institute, as envisioned by Ashatai, becomes a reality.​

During the proceedings, Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal read out the official condolence motion, honouring the life and unparalleled contributions of Asha Bhosle to the world of art and culture. ​

The cabinet observed a moment of silence to mark her passing, recognising her as a monumental figure in India’s musical history.​