Maharashtra government to form committee for lottery revenue

Maharashtra's government plans to form a committee to enhance revenue from the state lottery. Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister, announced this on Thursday. The committee will include elected representatives and will be led by former Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar. It is expected to be established before the budget session ends on March 26. The initiative draws inspiration from Kerala's successful lottery system. Pawar emphasized that the government aims to boost state revenue through various means, including the Maharashtra State Lottery. The committee will be tasked with providing suggestions within one month of its formation. Pawar expressed confidence in the state's financial health. He noted that Maharashtra is maintaining a revenue deficit below one percent and a fiscal deficit below three percent of its gross state domestic product (GSDP). He stated that the GSDP is projected to reach Rs 49.39 lakh crore in the 2025-26 financial year. Additionally, Pawar addressed opposition concerns about government spending, clarifying that it has reached 77.26 percent, contrary to claims of only 43 percent. The government is also committed to delivering monthly aid of Rs 2,100 to eligible women under the Ladki Bahin Yojana, up from the current amount of Rs 1,500. For paddy farmers, a bonus of Rs 20,000 per hectare will be granted for up to two hectares. This bonus will primarily benefit farmers in East Vidarbha. A meeting will take place by March 31 to discuss paddy procurement, ensuring transparency in the process. Pawar reassured that funds will be available for constructing rural roads and that there will be no financial shortages. The Finance Department has approved budgetary demands of Rs 1,84,287 crore for the next fiscal year.