The Maharashtra cabinet has approved a proposal to raise the income threshold for the OBC "non-creamy layer" category to ₹15 lakh, up from the current ₹8 lakh. This adjustment is intended to expand access to reservation benefits for a greater number of OBC individuals, ensuring that those who fall within the revised income bracket will qualify for state benefits. Additionally, a draft ordinance has been put forth to give constitutional status to the Maharashtra State Scheduled Caste Commission, signaling the government’s commitment to the SC community. The ordinance, expected to be tabled in the next legislative session, includes provisions for 27 posts within the commission, emphasizing its role in safeguarding the interests of the SC population.
Maharashtra's political landscape has been fraught with challenges for the ruling alliance. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Mahayuti coalition saw a significant decline in support, securing only 9 out of 48 seats, compared to 23 seats in 2019. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, led by the Congress, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction), and the NCP, outperformed the ruling coalition, heightening pressure on the government to strengthen its outreach efforts ahead of the upcoming state elections.
The measures targeting OBC and SC communities are widely regarded as a direct response to these political shifts. The BJP and its allies are working to regain the support of these groups, particularly in light of the electoral gains made by the opposition. Maharashtra's OBC population, which makes up approximately 52% of the state's electorate, has historically been a pivotal factor in elections, making this demographic critical to any party's success.
The Mahayuti government has sanctioned additional funds for various development initiatives. Notably, the cabinet approved ₹709 crore for the Balasaheb Thackeray Turmeric Research Centre in Hingoli, underscoring the administration's focus on agricultural advancements. Meanwhile, the government has committed to boosting the working capital of the Maulana Azad Financial Corporation, increasing it from ₹700 crore to ₹1,000 crore. This move is aimed at empowering minorities by facilitating access to credit and financial assistance for entrepreneurial ventures.