BMC approves civic fellowship for Mumbai youth to monitor potholes and waste
The General Body of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has approved the 'Mayor Gen Next Civic Fellows' programme, a new initiative aimed at involving Mumbai's youth directly in civic administration and public policy-making. The six-month pilot project will deploy 50 young fellows across 10 selected administrative wards in Mumbai to monitor and report on local civic issues.
Under the newly approved scheme, the appointed Gen Next Civic Fellows will track municipal services such as potholes, waste management, public transport, and other civic infrastructure. The fellows will be responsible for submitting regular digital reports directly to the concerned municipal officers through a mobile application.
The selected fellows will receive structured training, a monthly stipend, and an official certificate upon the successful completion of the programme. If the pilot project proves successful, the BMC plans to expand the initiative to include 200 Gen Next Civic Fellows, implementing it in phases across all administrative wards in Mumbai.
The proposal was moved by BJP Corporator and Standing Committee Member Tajinder Satnam Singh Tiwana. Following the approval in the house, the General Body directed the municipal administration to prepare a detailed implementation plan and roll out the scheme within a specified timeframe.
During the discussion in the house, it was emphasized that active youth participation would help ensure quicker resolution of the growing number of civic complaints in the city. Tiwana stated that the initiative aims to establish a modern, technology-driven, and citizen-centric monitoring system to improve oversight of roads, solid waste management, waterlogging, public amenities, and other civic issues.
Tiwana added that the energy, talent, and technological skills of young people are essential for Mumbai's future. He noted that the programme will create a meaningful bridge between the youth and civic governance while giving fresh momentum to Mumbai's overall development.
