October 16, 2025: Shiv Sena MP Dr Shrikant Shinde has called for a strategic focus on education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability in the Thane district. At a District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting on Wednesday, he directed officials to prepare a budget of Rs 100 crore for developing model and smart schools in the region, equipped with modern facilities such as well-maintained grounds, fully equipped laboratories, libraries, and continuous teacher training programmes.
“The development is often focused only on constructing roads, but more emphasis must be given to education and health. The administration should prioritise smart schools equipped with modern facilities like well-maintained grounds, fully equipped laboratories, libraries, and continuous training programmes for teaching staff,” Dr Shinde said, urging officials to identify and prioritise schools for development.
Dr Shinde also stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate the Waldhuni and Ulhas rivers, which flow through multiple cities in Thane. “Municipal corporations in the region have been asked to collaborate and prepare a comprehensive plan to revive and rejuvenate these rivers,” he noted.
Beyond education and environment, the MP emphasised strengthening public health services through smart health centres and improving e-waste and solid waste management. He further underscored the importance of ensuring that government schemes effectively reach their intended beneficiaries, highlighting a holistic approach to regional development that balances infrastructure, human capital, and environmental sustainability.
Dr Shinde’s directives reflect a push towards integrated development, combining educational advancement, health improvement, and environmental conservation for Thane district’s long-term growth.
Source: The Times of India
