Devendra Fadnavis Directs Officials to Form Maha CSR Authority to Coordinate Funds
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed state officials to submit a formal proposal for establishing a dedicated 'Maha CSR Authority' to ensure more effective, transparent, and coordinated utilisation of Corporate Social Responsibility funds across the state. The directions were issued during a review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House.
Addressing officials during the review of the proposed framework, Fadnavis noted that various Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives are currently operating independently at multiple levels. He stressed the need for a unified platform to coordinate these scattered efforts and maximise their overall social impact in Maharashtra.
The proposed authority will focus on coordinating, monitoring, and supervising the proper deployment of CSR contributions. To facilitate this, Fadnavis instructed officials to develop a quality project bank containing initiatives aligned with state government priorities, which will be made accessible to both contributing companies and non-governmental organisations.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the necessity of supporting small and medium enterprises that qualify for CSR activities. The authority will be tasked with guiding these enterprises in choosing appropriate projects and verified NGOs, alongside establishing mechanisms to recognise and encourage outstanding CSR contributions across the state.
Fadnavis stated that the overarching goal is to channel corporate financial backing directly toward government-priority development projects and areas with pressing public needs.
In addition, Fadnavis called for particular emphasis on the long-term maintenance and repair of assets created through corporate funds. Pointing out that several community assets fall into disuse within a few years due to a lack of upkeep resources, he directed that the upcoming authority must prioritise the maintenance and restoration of existing CSR-funded infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also suggested exploring a 'Diaspora Connect' program. The initiative aims to mobilise CSR and social development funds through the active participation of Maharashtrians living abroad as well as in other parts of India.
Under the planned organisational structure, the Chief Minister will serve as the head of the authority. The Governing Council will comprise senior government officials alongside industry representatives, while a Chief Executive Officer will act as member-secretary of the Governing Council and lead the Executive Council.
