Maharashtra Government Reserves 70% Jobs in Cooperatives for Locals

The Maharashtra government has mandated that 70 percent of job positions in District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) be allocated to candidates residing within the respective districts. This decision, aimed at enhancing local employment opportunities, was reported by the news agency PTI and outlined in a government resolution issued on October 31, 2023.

According to the resolution, the remaining 30 percent of job openings will be available to candidates from outside the district. Should suitable candidates from outside not be found, DCCBs may fill those positions with local applicants, ensuring that local talent is prioritized. This policy applies even to banks that had already issued recruitment advertisements prior to this directive.

To ensure fairness and transparency in the recruitment process, all future hiring in DCCBs will be conducted exclusively through recognized institutions: the Institute of Banking Personnel Selection (IBPS), Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), or Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Ltd (MKCL). The government resolution emphasizes that online recruitment will help restore public confidence, following complaints regarding previous recruitment practices by certain agencies linked to the Commissioner and Registrar of Cooperative Societies in Pune.

With this new directive, Maharashtra has discontinued its existing panel of seven recruitment agencies. DCCBs must now conduct all recruitment through one of the approved institutions using online methods, and once a recruitment agency is chosen, subcontracting will not be permitted.

Government’s Stance on Financial Discipline

In related news, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced that the state government will finalize its decision on a proposed farm loan waiver by June 30, 2026. Speaking at an event organized by the Chatrapati Sugar Cooperative Factory in Baramati, Pawar confirmed the government’s commitment to its manifesto promise regarding the loan waiver. However, he cautioned that such waivers should not become a recurring solution and stressed the importance of financial discipline among farmers.

“There was also a discussion about the loan waiver. A loan waiver will happen, but it will be decided on June 30, 2026. After the new financial year begins, the government will face a significant additional burden,” Pawar stated. He highlighted that while the government aims to honor its commitments, it also expects farmers to maintain responsible financial practices.

Pawar added that in the state’s PDCC Bank, borrowers who successfully repay their loans are eligible for loans at zero interest, suggesting that the financial landscape for disciplined borrowers may be more favorable compared to others.

This blend of local employment initiatives and fiscal responsibility underscores the Maharashtra government’s approach to supporting its communities while promoting sustainable economic practices.