World Bank approves $188 million loan to Maharashtra to stimulate growth in backward districts

World Bank approves $188.28 million loan to boost economic growth in Maharashtra, focusing on lagging districts.

“The World Bank has approved a $188.28-million loan to stimulate economic growth in Maharashtra, especially in the lagging districts,” a media release said.

“The $188.28 million Maharashtra Strengthening Institutional Capabilities in districts for enabling growth operation will support district planning and growth strategies,” the bank said in a statement.

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“Investments under the operation will equip districts with the necessary data, funds and expertise to maximise the value of public money employed for driving growth and job creation. It will also enhance private sector participation by improving e-government services for businesses in districts, especially in the tourism sector,” it said.

“By providing well-articulated investments in institutional capability and coordination at the district level, the programme will enhance evidence-based planning and policymaking, efficient public sector interface with the private sector and improved service delivery to the public – all of which are the fulcrum of broad-based growth, especially in lagging districts,” Auguste Tano Kouamé, the World Bank’s Country Director for India, said.

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“The operation will unlock the value of public data by building a data governance architecture including the Maha Databank for better coordination, integration, analysis and dissemination of insights into State development. This data can be used to address key development gaps including gender disparities.”