Archive · 26 Sep 2026
Maharashtra CM Keeps Mathadi Act, Announces Housing and Market Revamp
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the Mathadi Act will not be cancelled.
The law gives Mathadi workers legal and social protection.
He said it would instead be made stronger.
About 3,000 workers are expected to receive homes in Wadala.
The Vashi market will be rebuilt and modernized for future business needs.
The government also plans to review all 36 Mathadi Boards.
Independent audits will be used to improve their transparency.
Officials said unpaid worker benefits and accident compensation would be addressed.
Workers’ children will also be encouraged to pursue higher education and skilled professions.
Devendra Fadnavis said the Mathadi Act will remain in force and be strengthened, while warning of action against its misuse.
Around 3,000 Mathadi workers are expected to receive homes through the Wadala Mathadi Housing Project after approvals and FSI hurdles were cleared.
The Vashi Agriculture Produce Market Committee market will be redeveloped to international standards with a 50-year outlook.
All 36 Mathadi Boards will be strengthened, restructured and independently audited for greater transparency.
The government said it would address pending wages, Provident Fund, gratuity, bonus, house rent allowance and workplace accident compensation issues.
- Who
- Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Mathadi workers, labour leaders, state officials, Marketing Minister Jayakumar Rawal and Forest Minister Ganesh Naik.
- What
- The government reaffirmed the Mathadi Act, announced housing for about 3,000 workers, and promised Mathadi Board and Vashi market reforms.
- When
- Friday, during an event marking the 93rd birth anniversary of Mathadi movement founder Annasaheb Patil.
- Where
- At the Agriculture Produce Market Committee market in Vashi, Maharashtra; the housing project is in Wadala.
- Why
- To protect Mathadi workers, address pending benefits, provide housing, curb unauthorized activities and modernize market infrastructure.
- Mathadi Act
- The legislation will remain in force and be strengthened; the government said it would not be repealed or weakened.
- Wadala housing
- About 3,000 Mathadi workers are expected to receive homes after required FSI and other approvals were granted.
- Vashi market
- The Agriculture Produce Market Committee market will be redeveloped to international standards with a vision covering the next 50 years.
- Mathadi Boards
- All 36 boards in Maharashtra are being empowered and restructured.
- Independent audits
- Panels will audit the boards’ functioning to improve operational transparency.
- Pending benefits
- The government said it would prioritize wages, Provident Fund, gratuity, bonus, house rent allowance and workplace accident compensation.
- Bag-weight limit
- The government highlighted enforcement of a 50-kilogram limit for gunny bags.
