The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has approved the revised budget estimate for the financial year 2024-25 and the original budget estimate for 2025-26. The approval was granted by NMMC Commissioner and Administrator Dr. Kailas Shinde.

Chief Accounts and Finance Officer Satyawan Ubale submitted the budget to Dr. Shinde in the presence of Additional Commissioner Dr. Rahul Gethe, City Engineer Shirish Aardwad, and other senior officials.

Additionally, the NMMC Transport budget was submitted by Transport Manager Mr. Yogesh Kaduskar and Chief Accounts and Finance Officer Mr. Tushar Daundkar, receiving approval. Similarly, the Tree Authority budget was presented by the Deputy Commissioner of the Garden Department, Mr. Kisanrao Palande, and Mr. Nayana Sasane, which was also approved.

Given the absence of municipal elections, the administration is actively incorporating public feedback into the budget. Citizens’ participation through written suggestions has played a key role in shaping the city’s priorities.

Dr. Shinde highlighted the vision of developing Navi Mumbai as a ‘development centre’, aiming for high-quality urban infrastructure, enhanced civic amenities, and improved living standards. With the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA), the city is poised for industrial and commercial expansion, necessitating well-planned growth strategies.

Dr. Shinde emphasised that modern cities must leverage technology to address complex urban challenges. Navi Mumbai’s budget is designed with this futuristic approach, ensuring that the city continues to be a model of sustainable urban development in India. “With a strong financial foundation and a clear vision for the future, Navi Mumbai is set to reinforce its reputation as one of the most progressive and liveable cities in the country”, he said.

Budget Highlights

The financial summary is as follows:

2024-25 Revised Estimates:

Opening balance: Rs.1,686.06 crore

Total deposits: Rs. 5,089.88 crore

Total expenditure: Rs.3,788.84 crore

Closing balance: Rs. 1,301.04 crore

2025-26 Original Budget Estimates:

Opening balance: Rs. 1,301.04 crore

Total deposits: Rs. 5,709.95 crore

Total expenditure: Rs. 5,684.95 crore

Closing balance: Rs. 25 crores

Key Focus Areas of the Budget

The budget aligns with the city’s long-term development goals and includes the following priorities:

Financial reform – Strengthening economic management for sustainable growth.

Development Centre & Employment Creation – Enhancing job opportunities through infrastructure expansion.

Quality Education – Investing in educational facilities and programs.

Easy Transportation – Improving public transport for seamless connectivity.

Strengthening Healthcare – Upgrading medical services and hospitals.

Sustainable Water Management – Ensuring efficient water distribution and conservation.

Good Governance – Implementing transparent and citizen centric policies.

Environmental Sustainability – Promoting green initiatives under ‘Majhi Vasundhara’.

Planned Urban Development – Focusing on infrastructure growth and smart city projects.

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“I am proud to present the budget for 2025-26, which embodies the spirit of ‘My city, my pride.’ Our goal is to make Navi Mumbai the number one city in Maharashtra, aligning with the Central Government’s recognition of our city in the ‘Super Swachh League’ – a top-tier ranking among India’s cleanest cities. This honour increases our responsibility to maintain and enhance the city’s reputation.”

NMMC implements financial reforms to strengthen city’s economic stability

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has introduced a series of financial reforms aimed at ensuring economic stability, enhancing revenue collection, and maintaining fiscal discipline. NMMC Commissioner and Administrator Dr. Kailas Shinde has approved these measures, which focus on increasing income, optimising fund utilisation, and controlling liabilities to achieve the city’s development goals.

Key Financial Reforms Introduced by NMMC:

1.     Special Task Force for Revenue Growth:
A dedicated task force was appointed on November 26, 2024, to identify and implement strategies for income generation. The committee has submitted an interim report, and appropriate measures will be taken based on its recommendations.

2.     Strict Action for Tax Collection:

o    Special teams have been deployed at the ward level to recover outstanding property tax.

o    Actions such as seizing defaulters’ properties, freezing bank accounts, and auctioning assets are being implemented.

o    Properties without occupancy certificates but in use are being surveyed and taxed with penalties as per regulations.

o    The latest LiDAR technology is being used to survey properties for accurate tax assessment.

o    The integration of property records with the Secondary Registrar’s Office (IGR Integration) will provide real-time updates on ownership transfers and rental properties, improving tax collection efficiency.

3.     Independent Organisation for Faster Tax Collection:

o    A third-party organisation has been appointed to enhance tax collection by maintaining updated taxpayer records through a mobile app.

o    Taxpayers will receive regular notifications and reminders about pending dues.

o    Social media campaigns will be used to promote tax awareness.

4.     Commercial Property Survey for Advertisement Revenue:

o    A survey of businesses using advertising billboards, neon signs, and digital boards without permission will be conducted.

o    The initiative is expected to generate an annual revenue of approximately Rs.19 crores from regulated advertisements.

5.     Expansion of Advertisement Revenue:

o    Strategic locations near major roads will be identified for large advertising gantries to generate additional income.

o    15800 sq. ft. of advertising space on 33 public toilet billboards will be utilised, with an expected revenue of Rs. 8 crores from billboards and LED screens on electric poles.

6.     Leasing Commercial Spaces for Additional Revenue:

o    NMMC is leasing four floors of office space in its Vashi Ward Office (Sector 16A) and commercial shop premises in Sector 12, Vashi through a tender process.

o    Estimated annual revenue: Rs. 5 crores.

7.     Raising Funds for Mega Projects:

o    To finance large-scale infrastructure projects, funds will be raised through regular bonds, green bonds, and blue bonds, depending on project needs.

o    The Deferred Payment method will be used for select projects to manage financial liabilities efficiently.

8.     Limiting Liabilities for Financial Stability:

o    A strict policy ensures that liabilities do not exceed 1.5 times the budget provision under any department.

o    New projects will be approved only within predetermined financial limits to maintain fiscal health.

9.     Adoption of Cash Flow Management for Budgeting:

o    Monthly cash flow planning will be implemented to align income and expenditure across departments.

o    Funds will be strategically invested in fixed deposits to maximise returns while ensuring liquidity.

10.                        Real-Time Accounting of Collections and Expenditures:

• Online systems will be introduced to record all municipal collections and expenses in real time, eliminating delays and improving financial transparency.

11.                   Online Budgeting System for Enhanced Efficiency:

• From the next financial year, the entire budgeting process—including budget estimates, allocation, and spending control—will be conducted online to streamline operations.

12.                   Full Implementation of ERP System:

• A new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system will be implemented from the upcoming financial year.

• This system will ensure real-time updates on revenue collection and expenses across all municipal departments, enhancing transparency and efficiency.

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“NMMC aims to strengthen it economic resilience, improve revenue collection, and ensure efficient fund utilisation. With that these steps are essential to maintaining Navi Mumbai’s position as a leading urban centre while ensuring sustainable growth and financial stability”, said Municipal Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde.

NMMC rolls out key reforms to boost education quality in municipal schools

NMMC is taking significant steps to enhance the quality of education in municipal schools, ensuring they meet the standards of a top-ranked city. Under the leadership of the NMMC Commissioner and Administrator Dr. Kailas Shinde, several initiatives have been introduced to improve scientific learning, digital education, infrastructure, and student welfare.

Key Initiatives for Quality Education in NMMC Schools:

1.     Development of a Scientific Perspective:

o    To spark scientific curiosity, Atal Tinkering Labs will be set up in municipal schools under the government's Atal Innovation Mission.

o    A dedicated library will be established to provide knowledge on topics of geography, culture, and history.

2.     Advanced Computer Labs:

o    CBSE and other municipal schools will have computer labs to provide hands-on digital education and improve IT literacy among students.

3.     State-of-the-Art Science Park:

o    A Science Park covering 20,000 square metres is being developed with five themes: life, energy, environment, space, and robotics.

o    Nehru Planetarium will serve as the knowledge partner, ensuring that the facilities are modern and high-quality.

4.     Comprehensive Educational Policy:

o    Beyond academics, students will receive holistic education in areas like sports, cultural development, science, technology, financial literacy, sex education, mathematics, defence training, and business knowledge.

5.     Improved Distribution of Uniforms and School Materials:

o    Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) was previously used for distributing uniforms and school materials, but some parents faced difficulties in utilising funds.

o    To ensure 100% availability, NMMC has now directly distributed uniforms to all students for 2024-25.

o    In 2025-26, school materials such as backpacks, raincoats, shoes, socks, and notebooks will also be distributed directly by NMMC before the start of the academic year.

6.     Learning Outcome-Based Education:

o    To improve student performance, language and mathematics comprehension tests have been conducted in municipal schools in collaboration with Pratham, an educational organisation.

o    Teachers have been trained to assess students' learning levels using a structured Test Model for Grades 3 to 8.

o    The next phase involves intensive teacher training to support students who need additional assistance in achieving grade-level competency.

7.     Mission Innovation – ‘Swachh Sangram’ Initiative:

o    Aimed at fostering creative thinking and problem-solving, this initiative will train students at the Centre for Innovation and Incubation at Dr. D.Y. Patil University.

o    Students will develop technical solutions to real-life challenges, and the best innovations will be showcased at exhibitions and implemented at the city level.

8.     Expansion of NCC Training:

o    In collaboration with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Department, NMMC will introduce NCC training in all municipal schools.

o    This program will instil discipline, leadership, and patriotism among students, with NMMC providing the necessary support and resources.

9.     Scholarship Support for Students:

o    In 2023-24, 26,309 students from Grade 1 to college level received scholarships under six different schemes.

o    For 2024-25, 43,791 students have applied, and 36,104 eligible students are set to receive financial assistance after the verification process.

NMMC Strengthens Healthcare Facilities

Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is set to enhance its healthcare system to meet the growing demands of the region. Several new initiatives and upgrades are being implemented to ensure better medical services for residents of the city.

Key Developments in Healthcare Infrastructure:

MRI Facility: A 24-hour MRI service will be introduced at the Civic Hospital at Sector 10 in Vashi, to provide affordable and timely diagnostic support.

Day Care Chemotherapy Unit: A 10-bed chemotherapy unit has been started at the Civic Hospital in Nerul, offering essential cancer treatment.

Dialysis Centres: Two new dialysis centres will be opened in Vashi and CBD, expected to benefit around 6,552 patients annually.

Cathlab & ICU: Plans are underway to establish a Cathlab and ICU at the Public Hospital, Airoli, to enhance heart disease treatment with advanced angiography services.

Nutrition Rehabilitation Centre (NRC): A specialized NRC will be set up at Maternal and Child Hospital, Turbhe, to tackle severe acute malnutrition in children and reduce child mortality rates.

Senior Citizens’ Geriatric Wards: Dedicated geriatric wards are now available in Vashi and will be extended to Nerul and Airoli hospitals for improved elderly care.

Postgraduate Medical Institute: NMMC has launched a PG Medical Institute, with admissions for 22 students in five specializations for 2025-26, ensuring a steady supply of skilled doctors.

Ayush & Veterinary Hospitals: The corporation plans to establish two Ayurvedic hospitals and a veterinary hospital to promote holistic healthcare.

Nursing College: A nursing college is proposed within the municipal limits to train paramedical staff and improve hospital efficiency.

NABH Accreditation: NMMC aims to achieve NABH certification to upgrade hospital standards, improve medical services, and enhance patient care quality.

Modern Mortuary & Sterilisation Facility: Plans include a modular mortuary at Public Hospital, Vashi, and a modern CSSD (Central Sterile & Supply Department) to prevent infections and maintain high hygiene standards.

Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation Enhances Social Development Initiatives

The Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is implementing several social welfare programs to ensure the inclusive growth of senior citizens, women, economically weaker sections, and marginalised communities. The following key initiatives aim to promote empowerment, skill development, and social justice across the city.

Key Social Development Initiatives:

Empowerment of Women’s Self-Help Groups & Bal Bhavans
A dedicated portal will be developed to organise and train women's self-help groups (SHGs), along with a 30% reservation of commercial spaces to encourage employment and entrepreneurship. Additionally, Bal Bhavans are being constructed for children’s all-round development.

Vocational Training Centre
A new training centre will provide skill development courses in electrical engineering, wiring, plumbing, carpentry, computer operation, and welding, ensuring better employment opportunities for youth.

Hostel for Working Women
A modern hostel will be established to provide safe and affordable accommodation for working women migrating to Navi Mumbai for employment.

Welfare Schemes for Widows & Destitute Women
Several financial assistance programs will be implemented, including:
Marriage assistance for daughters of widows and abandoned women.
Scholarships for children of widows/divorced women.
Financial aid for remarriage of widowed women from weaker sections.
Lump sum grant to families upon the death of the male breadwinner.

Tribal Community Welfare
The Gharkul Scheme will be executed in tribal villages in partnership with the District Collector and Forest Department. Scholarships and skill development training will continue for students and beneficiaries.

Strengthening Senior Citizen Welfare Centres
A total of 34 Senior Citizen Recreation Centres have been set up, offering facilities such as carrom, chess, TV, newspapers, medical equipment, and more. These centres will be further strengthened.

Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – NULM
107 women’s self-help groups formed, with Rs.10,000 distributed to 28 SHGs.
17,635 beneficiaries received loans under the PMSWANidhi scheme.
Training provided to 16 women waste collectors, with 10 waste collection vehicles allocated. 

Har Ghar Samvidhan Initiative
This program will be introduced in schools and colleges to educate students on constitutional values, rights, duties, social justice, and nationalism.

New Library at NMMC Headquarters
A library will be set up to benefit officers, employees, and journalists with access to books, research materials, and study resources.

Survey & Support for Disabled Individuals
A city-wide survey will identify the exact number of disabled individuals to ensure proper policy implementation and better access to education, healthcare, and social schemes.

Expansion of e.t.c (Early Training Centre) for the Disabled
A new e.t.c Centre will be set up in Airoli to decentralise services and make facilities more accessible for residents of Digha, Airoli, and Ghansoli.

Computer Lab for Disabled Students
A modern IT lab will be established at the e.t.c centre to provide digital skills and IT education for disabled students.

Transition Camp for Project-Affected Families
Temporary relocation facilities will be arranged in CIDCO flats for families affected by municipal development projects.

30% Land Reservation for Non-Agricultural Production
A policy is being formulated to allocate 30% of land for women, disabled individuals, and the third gender for business and entrepreneurial activities.

Workers’ Welfare & Insurance
Rs.10 lakh accident insurance under postal insurance for workers.
Healthcare access for non-ESIC workers in municipal hospitals.
Issuance of Ayushman Cards, Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima, and Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima for sanitation workers.

Multi-Activity Centre for Transgender Individuals
A dedicated training and welfare centre will be established to support transgender individuals with employment, education, and social security initiatives.

Tourism in Navi Mumbai to get a big push with new infrastructure developments

Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) is set to enhance tourism and entertainment facilities in the city with several ambitious projects. The city, already home to key attractions like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Memorial, Wonders Park, and Vishnudas Bhave Auditorium, will see new developments aimed at boosting tourism and providing recreational spaces for residents and visitors.

Major Tourism Development Initiatives:

1. City Tourism Plan

To promote Navi Mumbai as a tourist-friendly city, NMMC is preparing a ‘Tourism Development Plan’ to guide future projects and infrastructure development.

2. Marina Project

A Marina Park is planned along the city’s bay area to enhance waterfront tourism. NMMC will create the necessary facilities to support this initiative.

3. Mangrove Park

Recognizing the ecological importance of mangroves in the region, a Mangrove Park will be developed in collaboration with the Forest Department.

4. Museum

A museum will be established to serve as a centre for social education and cultural preservation. Unlike art galleries, which feature temporary exhibits, the museum will provide permanent displays that inspire learning and creativity.

5. Modern Aquarium

A state-of-the-art aquarium will be built on a 7,773.68 square metres plot in Nerul (Sector 28, Building No. 5A). The project will be developed in partnership with the Fisheries Department, this aquarium will educate visitors about marine biodiversity and serve as a major tourist attraction.

6. Gawlidev/Sulaidevi Tourist Spot

This scenic location will undergo beautification and infrastructure development, including footpaths, gazebos, electric lighting, and drinking water facilities. This initiative will enhance Navi Mumbai’s appeal as a tourist destination.

7. Open-Air Theatre

A multipurpose Folk Art Centre and open theatre will be developed in Ghansoli (Sector 8, Plot No. 22). The facility will feature:

• 350-seat open mini-theatre.
• Amphitheatre with an orchestra pit.
• Green rooms, guest rooms, and rehearsal spaces.
• Two multipurpose cultural halls.
• 68-car parking facility.

8. Airoli Theatre

In addition to Vashi’s Natyagruha, a new Natyagruha in Airoli is under construction. This will provide a platform for folk artists and entertainment options for residents of Koparkhairane and Ghansoli. The project is expected to be completed by September 2025.

9. International Botanical Garden

A world-class botanical garden will be developed in Nisarga Udyan, Koparkhairane, to attract tourists and serve as an educational resource for students. A budget of Rs. 800 lakhs has been allocated for this project.

10. Butterfly Garden

To enhance urban biodiversity, butterfly-attracting plants will be cultivated in select gardens. This initiative will beautify the city and promote eco-tourism.