Mumbai : The Maharashtra government’s recent decision to allocate approximately ₹24 crore for sending SMS updates to citizens has sparked considerable debate. Critics argue that this expenditure reflects a controversial “favored contractor” scheme rather than a genuine public welfare initiative.

The General Administration Department has announced the financial approval for using SMS as a means to disseminate government decisions to the public. According to this decision, the Directorate of Information and Public Relations proposed a budget of ₹23.78 crore to ensure that citizens receive timely updates on the government’s weekly meetings and public interest decisions. This proposal has now been approved by the government. (Eknath Shinde News)

Moreover, the government has directed that the institution selected for this project should be chosen through an e-tendering process, following the guidelines set forth by the Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP). The announcement specifies that all procedures must adhere to government directives, financial regulations, and the rules established by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). (Maharashtra Politics)

However, this decision has raised eyebrows among activists and political commentators. Vijay Kumbhar, the state vice-president of the Aam Aadmi Party, has criticized the initiative, stating, “The government appears to favor contractors under the guise of public service. It is difficult to predict what proposals will emerge that prioritize contractors’ interests over public welfare. There seems to be a blatant disregard for regulations and protocols.” (Maharashtra News)

Kumbhar further elaborated that with the average of 52 cabinet meetings held annually, the estimated expenditure could range between ₹40 to ₹50 lakh each week. If additional meetings are called out of necessity, this figure could climb even higher.