Maharashtra’s Ganesh mandals have received a welcome relief as Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a significant policy change. Mandals that have consistently adhered to regulations and faced no complaints over the past decade will now only need to obtain permission once every five years, offering them greater flexibility in planning their upcoming festivals. The decision was made during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Shinde, taking into consideration the directions provided by the High Court in response to a petition. The Urban Development Department has officially conveyed the government’s decision in accordance with the Chief Minister’s instructions. Under the new policy, all Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats are mandated to grant permission to exemplary Ganesh mandals that have diligently followed government rules and regulations. These mandals will be required to pay a nominal fee for the use of space and must strictly adhere to government terms and conditions.
