Maharashtra Allocates ₹7.5 Crore for Youth Conclave Amid Drought
Despite ongoing drought conditions, Maharashtra's government has approved significant funding for a youth conclave aimed at innovation and skill development.
The state has earmarked ₹7.5 crore for the 'Viksit Bharat 2047 Youth Conclave'.
Funding will come from state resources and corporate social responsibility contributions.
Concerns have been raised about the lack of progress on a new youth policy.
In a move that has sparked debate amidst severe drought conditions, Maharashtra's sports and youth welfare department has sanctioned ₹7.5 crore for the upcoming 'Viksit Bharat 2047 Youth Conclave'. This national-level event aims to foster innovation, brainstorming, and skill development among the youth. However, the exact date for the conclave has yet to be determined.
The decision to fund the conclave comes at a time when the state is grappling with budget constraints due to the ongoing drought. The funding structure includes ₹6 crore from state resources and ₹1.5 crore expected to be raised through corporate social responsibility initiatives. The conclave will be organized under the framework of the 2012 youth policy, which has since lapsed in 2022, raising questions about its relevance and execution.
Deepak Singla, the sports and youth welfare commissioner, emphasized that the event will proceed only after consultations with the Chief Minister's office, taking into account the current financial situation and the impact of the drought. A government resolution has been issued to approve this unplanned expenditure, categorized as a 'new item' in the budget.
The backdrop of this funding decision includes the slow progress on a new youth policy, which has been in the works since last year. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had previously allocated ₹10 crore for this initiative, but only ₹35 lakh has been utilized for administrative costs. A committee of MLAs and MLCs tasked with drafting the policy has met infrequently, leading to frustrations among its members regarding the lack of engagement and consultation.
Looking ahead, the state is under pressure to ensure that the new youth policy reflects the aspirations of the younger generation. Independent MLC Satyajeet Tambe has voiced concerns that the current drafting process is disconnected from the youth's needs, as it is being conducted without adequate input from stakeholders. As the conclave approaches, the government faces the challenge of aligning its initiatives with the pressing realities of Maharashtra's youth and the ongoing drought crisis.
