NIT Under Scrutiny: State Government Reviews Its Performance and Spending
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Nagpur, India: The Maharashtra government has ordered a review of the Nagpur Improvement Trust (NIT), raising concerns about its future. The government is considering whether NIT should continue as an independent body, be dissolved, or be merged with the Nagpur Metropolitan Region Development Authority (NMRDA). This decision comes as details of NIT’s spending for 2024-25 have also been revealed.
Why Is NIT Being Reviewed?
The review was ordered because of several issues, including delays in regularising land under the Gunthewari Act. Around 1.5 lakh plot holders in Nagpur have been waiting for their release letters for two years. Many people have also complained about NIT’s high development charges and the requirement to reserve 10% of land, which slows down the approval process.
Some political leaders, including former minister Nitin Raut, have raised concerns about how NIT handles land approvals. He has also called for an investigation into possible irregularities in land allocation.
How Did NIT Spend Its Budget in 2024-25?
While the review is underway, NIT’s spending for the last financial year has come under focus. In 2024-25, NIT had a total budget of ₹1,507.79 crore. The money was used for various projects across the city, including:
- Road Development: ₹70 crore was spent on building and upgrading roads.
- Public Services: ₹55 crore was given to the Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) to improve basic facilities.
- Housing Projects: ₹10 crore was allocated for new housing projects, with NIT expecting ₹80 crore in revenue from property rentals.
- Community Development: ₹791.26 crore was used for improving Dalit and Non-Dalit areas and projects supported by MPs and MLAs.
- Sports Infrastructure: ₹150 crore was spent on improving 200 playgrounds with better lighting, fencing, and drainage systems.
- Commercial Spaces: ₹30 crore in revenue was expected from markets and commercial buildings in areas like Gokulpeth and Ashirwad Nagar.
What Happens Next?
A government-appointed committee will now study NIT’s performance and finances. Based on their report, the state will decide whether to let NIT continue operating, merge it with NMRDA, or dissolve it completely. The decision could impact future infrastructure and development projects in Nagpur.
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