The World Bank has approved a $188.28 million loan to support economic growth in Maharashtra, particularly in underdeveloped districts. The initiative aims to enhance district-level planning and growth strategies, the bank announced. The program will equip districts with critical resources — data, funding and expertise — ensuring efficient use of public money to drive economic expansion and job creation. It also seeks to promote private sector involvement by upgrading e-governance services, especially in tourism.
The loan, provided by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), has a maturity period of 15 years, including a five-year grace period.
“This program will enable evidence-based planning, efficient public-private sector collaboration, and improved service delivery to the public, which are vital for inclusive growth,” said Auguste Tano Kouamé, the World Bank’s Country Director for India.
One of the key features of the program includes the creation of a Maha Databank, a data governance framework designed to address development challenges, including gender disparities. Moreover, districts achieving annual performance targets will receive fiscal incentives.
The project will also enhance Maharashtra’s online service portals, MAITRI 2.0 for business services and the RTS portal for government services, enabling seamless access to resources for the private sector. “The initiative sets up an incentive framework and strengthens digital portals to ensure timely and efficient service delivery,” said Neha Gupta and Thomas Danielewitz, Task Team Leaders for the project.
(With inputs from PTI)