Mumbai :In a major step toward improving rural connectivity, the Maharashtra government has constituted a 23-member high-level committee to strengthen farm and village (Pandhan) roads, directly addressing long-standing challenges faced by farmers in transporting agricultural produce.
The committee, chaired by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, was formed following a promise made by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the monsoon session of the Legislative Assembly on July 11, 2025.
Key Members and Mandate
The committee includes Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Jayakumar Gore, Employment Guarantee Scheme Minister Bharatshet Gogawale, MoS Ashish Jaiswal, five MLAs, seven senior officials, and seven special invitees. It has been instructed to submit a comprehensive report within a month.
Main Objectives
Review the Matoshri Pandhan Road Scheme for improvements.
Study successful rural road models in Nagpur, Amravati, and Latur.
Recommend reforms based on findings of the Land Records Commissioner-led panel.
Propose the creation of a dedicated accounting head and explore funding convergence from existing schemes.
Suggest implementation strategies to improve all farm and village roads within five years.
Recommend the appropriate department to oversee the scheme.
The committee also has the authority to consult experts and retired officers and to offer additional suggestions beyond its initial scope.
Aimed at Uplifting Farmers
With increased agricultural mechanization, better rural roads are essential for efficient operations and timely access to markets. The initiative is expected to enhance rural livelihoods and overall agricultural productivity.
Minister Bawankule emphasized the importance of inclusive planning and timely execution to bring tangible improvements in farmers’ daily lives and boost the rural economy.
