Maharashtra to Set Up ‘Maha CSR Authority’ for Better Use of Corporate Social Funds

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government is set to establish a dedicated ‘Maha CSR Authority’ to ensure transparent, coordinated and effective utilisation of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds across the state.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed officials to prepare a detailed proposal for the authority. The initiative aims to bring together CSR activities undertaken by different companies and align them with Maharashtra’s key development priorities.

A dedicated CSR Project Bank will be created, featuring quality development projects that companies and NGOs can support. The authority will also guide small and medium-sized enterprises in selecting suitable projects and credible implementing agencies.

Fadnavis stressed that maintenance of CSR-funded projects must be given equal importance to their creation, as several projects become non-functional due to inadequate upkeep.

The proposed authority will be chaired by the Chief Minister, with a Governing Council comprising senior officials and industry experts. The government will also examine the ‘Diaspora Connect’ concept to mobilise social funding from Maharashtrians living outside the state and abroad.