Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) and Ramakrishna Mission, with the aim of fostering various developmental and social initiatives in the region. This decision follows closely on the heels of a similar allotment to the Mumbai District Cooperative Bank, which is controlled by BJP MLC Pravin Darekar.
A plot exceeding two hectares has been granted to the TMC for the construction of a convention centre. This facility is intended to provide career opportunities through skill development for the youth in the Vadavali area. The government’s announcement highlights the convention centre’s potential to serve as a hub for empowering local youth and enhancing their employability. Additionally, a plot over five hectares in the Kolshet area has been given to TMC at no cost. This land is designated for the establishment of an aviary and an environment awareness centre. However, sources within the government suggest that this allocation may have political undertones, given that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who hails from Thane, has been actively promoting projects in the area in light of the upcoming assembly elections in October. Critics also point out that an aviary is already under construction by the BMC in Bhandup, raising questions about the necessity of a second aviary in close proximity.
In a related development, over two hectares of land in the Kavesar area has been allotted to the Ramakrishna Mission math. This land is intended for a range of activities including spiritual, social, health, educational, and women empowerment programmes. The allocation was made at a nominal rate of ₹1 per square metre, in accordance with a government resolution dating back to July 25, 2019. Earlier this week, a three-acre government plot was assigned to a bank led by BJP leader Pravin Darekar for the purpose of constructing a Sahakar Bhavan, further highlighting the trend of recent land grants to various entities within the state. These land allocations underscore the state government’s focus on development and social initiatives, particularly in regions with upcoming political significance. As these projects take shape, they are expected to bring substantial benefits to the local communities, though they also invite scrutiny regarding their timing and underlying motivations.
