Maharashtra To Form Panel For New College Locations, CM Devendra Fadnavis Orders CET Centre Expansion

Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has ordered the formation of a sub-committee to investigate potential sites for establishing new colleges outside the universities' five-year development plans. This initiative aims to promote equal access to higher education facilities throughout the state and facilitate the establishment of new colleges in regions where they are required, according to Fadnavis.

The sub-committee will assess locations recommended by universities for inclusion in the 2027-28 annual plan but not currently part of their existing five-year plans. The committee will examine representations received from elected representatives and educational institutions seeking approval to set up new colleges. It will evaluate all stipulated criteria and submit its findings to the state government.

Additionally, Fadnavis ordered authorities to expand the number of Common Entrance Test (CET) examination centers, with a primary focus on enhancing security. Suggestions and feedback from students will be considered to improve clarity around the CET examination process. Fadnavis emphasized that any increase in the number of examination centers must not jeopardize examination security, transparency, or supervision.

He directed the establishment of a system for the CET Cell to exercise more effective control and monitoring over examination centers. The meeting also discussed the impact of the state government's decision to provide free higher education to girls. Data presented at the meeting indicated that the proportion of girls among total engineering admissions in Maharashtra has risen from 32.72% in the 2023-24 academic year to 37.27% in the 2026-27 academic year.

Officials reviewed the centralized admission process and discussed measures to simplify, streamline, and make the admission process more transparent and student-friendly while ensuring a smooth admission experience.