Mumbai is buzzing with anticipation as the Maharashtra legislature’s budget session kicks off on February 23, 2026. On the eve of this crucial session, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed a packed press conference, unveiling key plans that promise relief for the masses while upholding strict financial discipline.
Fadnavis emphasized that the upcoming budget, which he will personally present on March 6, will prioritize public welfare. ‘This budget will ease the burden on citizens, but we won’t compromise on fiscal prudence,’ he declared. Tough decisions will be made if needed to ensure long-term stability.
Paying tribute to the late Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, Fadnavis noted Pawar’s meticulous preparations for the budget. A champion of economic discipline who presented 11 budgets in his career, Pawar’s insights and recommendations will be fully incorporated. The session will also see 15 bills tabled for discussion.
Highlighting central government support, the CM pointed to Maharashtra’s enhanced tax devolution of Rs 98,306 crore from the Union budget—higher than previous years. Additional inflows include Rs 23,000 crore for two high-speed corridors and railway projects. The VBG Ram-Ji scheme has boosted human-days from 130 million to 160 million, unlocking an extra Rs 1,400 crore.
Fadnavis promised clarity on the Rs 30 lakh crore investment pledges secured at Davos, dispelling myths during the assembly debates. Maharashtra’s pivotal role in the India AI Summit shone through with the nation’s first Agri AI Summit. Ajit Pawar had allocated Rs 500 crore for the AI mission, and the ‘Mahavistar’ app now aids 3 million farmers, including in Bhilli language, potentially slashing agri costs by 25-40%.
Deputy CM Eknath Shinde added that Davos deals could generate 40-50 lakh jobs. Infrastructure gets a massive Rs 1 lakh crore push, with MMRDA’s Rs 46,000 crore budget approved. Projects like BKC-Kurla and Borivali-Thane tunnels will ease Mumbai’s traffic woes. Following an MMRDA accident, officials were suspended, fines imposed, and Rs 15 lakh aid given to victims’ families.
Irrigation sees 125 projects greenlit for Rs 90,000 crore, ensuring water for Marathwada and Vidarbha. Farmers benefit from a Rs 32,000 crore package and elevated NDRF norms.
In a poignant note, Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar lauded Ajit Pawar’s balance of growth and discipline, assuring the budget will drive holistic development and justice for all sections.