The true measure of public service is not merely maintaining systems but identifying opportunities where others see limitations. It is about recognizing hidden potential, envisioning possibilities and mobilizing communities towards a shared future. Such leadership often transforms ordinary public spaces into symbols of collective pride and economic growth.
In Maharashtra’s Jalna district, one such transformation is underway under the leadership of 2018-batch IAS officer and District Collector Ashima Mittal. Since taking charge, Mittal has focused on reshaping the district’s image through citizen-centric development, urban beautification, tourism promotion, livelihood generation and future-oriented economic planning.
At the heart of this transformation stands Motibagh – a once underutilised lakeside area that has now emerged as one of Jalna’s most vibrant public destinations. Through innovative planning, local resource utilization and a strong emphasis on community engagement, the Motibagh Beautification Initiative has become a flagship example of how thoughtful governance can enhance quality of life while strengthening local identity.
Today, the project is much more than a beautification exercise. It is a story of vision, economic opportunity, civic education and a larger mission called “Rising Jalna.”
Spotting Potential Where Others Saw Neglect
When Ashima Mittal arrived in Jalna in August 2025, one location immediately caught her attention – a picturesque lake at Motibagh.
While the waterbody possessed natural beauty, its surroundings lacked the development necessary to make it a meaningful public destination.
Speaking to Indian Masterminds, IAS Mittal recalled the moment that sparked the idea.
“When I was posted to Jalna in August 2025 and arrived there, I noticed a beautiful lake. It is a very fine lake, but I didn’t see much development around it. I felt it was crucial to develop this prime location.”
Determined to unlock the site’s potential, she granted administrative approval for the project in December using available district funds.
But unlike many urban development projects that rely heavily on expensive infrastructure, Mittal envisioned something different.
“My vision was to develop it cost-effectively by using local materials and involving the local community. We planned everything thoroughly, including the creation of a Chowpatty there.”
This citizen-centric approach would eventually become the foundation of Motibagh’s success.
The Birth of MH-21 Chowpatty
One of the most innovative elements of the Motibagh transformation is the creation of the MH-21 Food Court, popularly known as the MH21 Chowpatty.
The concept was inspired by one of India’s most famous food destinations.
“I drew inspiration from Indore’s famous ’56 Dukan’ initiative, where a cluster of beautifully arranged shops creates a vibrant food plaza atmosphere. That’s where the MH21 concept came from.”
The name itself is deeply connected to Jalna’s identity. MH-21 is the Regional Transport Office (RTO) registration code assigned to the district.
“Since MH21 is Jalna’s vehicle registration code, we named it MH21 Chowpatty.”
The administration envisioned 21 food outlets, mirroring Indore’s iconic concept while creating a uniquely Jalna-centric destination.
“The plan was to set up 21 shops—mirroring the ’56’ concept but with 21 units here. So far, 12 shops are operational, and we intend to add the remaining nine.”
Existing shops were renovated, upgraded and painted in vibrant colours, creating a lively visual identity for the food court. To ensure year-round functionality, a large aesthetic shade structure was installed, protecting visitors from both harsh sunlight and monsoon rains.
“The existing 12 shops are doing very well; we’ve painted them in vibrant, multi-colored hues. We also covered the open area so the space remains functional regardless of the sun or rain.”
Today, the food court has become a bustling social and economic space, supporting local entrepreneurs while providing residents with a modern recreational experience.
Creating a Traffic Park with a Purpose
The Motibagh project was never intended to be merely decorative. The administration wanted the space to educate as well as entertain.
As part of the development, the entire site was conceptualised around a Traffic Park theme. “We have now developed the entire site based on a traffic park concept,” she added.
An existing rail track within the premises was renovated and integrated into the design. She said, “There is a rail track there. We renovated it.”
Traffic signs, awareness installations and educational displays were introduced throughout the park.
“We also incorporated traffic rules and related signage to complete the traffic park theme. We wanted visitors to become aware of traffic rules as well.”
The initiative has effectively transformed a recreational space into an interactive learning environment where children, youth and families can learn road safety practices and responsible civic behaviour in an engaging manner.
This educational component has added a unique dimension to the project, combining public awareness with leisure and tourism.
The Sunset Point: A Landmark Inspired by Global Ideas
Among the most photographed attractions at Motibagh today is the newly developed Sunset View Point.
The scenic spot is connected through a beautifully illuminated walkway extending beyond the lake area.
IAS Mittal said, “We constructed a beautiful walkway extending beyond the lake area. We installed glowing lights and connected the walkway to the sunset point.”
At the centre of the viewpoint stands a striking sculpture inspired by a landmark Mittal had once seen abroad.
“I had seen a bird statue online on an island called Langkawi in Malaysia. So, we decided to install a statue of Maharashtra’s state bird.”
However, the sculpture is far more than an artistic installation.
It tells the story of Jalna.
The Symbolism of Jalna’s ‘Three S’ Economy
The grand sculpture at the Sunset Point has become a powerful representation of Jalna’s aspirations and strengths.
The Maharashtra state bird is depicted facing the national flag, symbolizing both regional pride and national commitment.
“The concept we applied involves the national flag. The state bird is depicted looking towards the national flag.”
The base of the sculpture incorporates elements representing Jalna’s economic identity.
According to Mittal, these are the district’s “Three S” pillars:
1. Steel
Jalna is widely recognized as one of India’s major steel-producing centres.
“Jalna is known as a Steel City. There are only two cities in India known by this title.”
2. Seed
The district has established itself as a national leader in the seed industry.
“If you look closely at the sculpture, you will see seed motifs throughout.”
3. Silk
The third element represents Jalna’s future ambitions.
A silk dupatta draped over the branch where the bird sits signifies the district’s emerging silk ecosystem.
“We incorporated a silk dupatta draped over the branch where the bird is perched, as we aim to establish Jalna as a Silk City.”
For Mittal, the sculpture serves as a visual roadmap of where Jalna is today and where it aims to be tomorrow.
Building Jalna’s Silk Revolution
Perhaps one of the most ambitious initiatives currently underway in the district is the effort to establish Jalna as a silk production hub.
Unlike many industrial projects that focus on isolated segments, the administration is creating an entire silk value chain from the ground up.
“We are setting up a silk market in Jalna from scratch – covering the entire value chain from soil to fabric.”
The initiative includes large-scale farmer participation.
“Training for cultivation across 3,000 acres is underway simultaneously.”
A cocoon market is nearing completion and is expected to become operational soon.
“A market for cocoons is also being established. It is in the final stages of completion and will be inaugurated soon.”
Large-scale silk reeling operations have already commenced.
At the weaving stage, the administration has focused strongly on women’s empowerment.
“We have trained 30 women in weaving over the last four months.”
Empowering Women Through Home-Based Livelihoods
The silk initiative is also emerging as a social transformation programme.
Mittal explained how many women engaged in bidi (BD) work approached her seeking better livelihood opportunities.
“The women currently involved in BD work in Jalna face miserable living conditions; they approached me seeking assistance.”
Her solution was simple yet transformative.
“I suggested that they could easily weave silk from the comfort of their homes once they learned the skill, and they showed great interest.”
The administration is now actively facilitating the transition of these women into silk weaving, creating opportunities for dignified, home-based employment.
“We are now trying to bring them into the weaving business.”
If successful, the initiative could significantly improve incomes while simultaneously creating a skilled workforce for Jalna’s emerging silk sector.
The Vision of ‘Rising Jalna’
While Motibagh is one visible symbol of change, it forms part of a broader district-wide vision called “Rising Jalna.”
The concept was launched around Jalna’s Foundation Day.
“May 1 marks Jalna’s foundation day. It has now completed 45 years, marking the start of its 46th year. We have designated this 46th year as the ‘Rising Jalna’ year.”
The campaign seeks to reshape both the district’s self-image and external perception.
“Our goal for this year is for Jalna to reach new heights – incorporating positive activities, new projects, technology adoption and the use of AI.”
The initiative is aimed at citizens, businesses and industries alike.
“We want people to see the positive side of Jalna.”
Rebranding Jalna as an Investment Destination
For years, certain negative narratives had overshadowed the district’s strengths.
According to Mittal, changing that perception became a priority.
“Over the last two years, the negative aspects of the city, particularly law and order issues, had become quite prominent. That hindered investment.”
The administration is now actively working to reposition Jalna as an investment and export hub.
A major milestone in this direction was the inauguration of a dry port on May 25.
“A dry port allows for direct exports—essentially functioning like a seaport but without the water.”
The facility is expected to significantly strengthen Jalna’s logistics ecosystem and attract export-oriented industries.
“We are currently trying to attract more export-oriented industries to the city.”
Urban Beautification with Economic and Social Impact
Mittal believes that urban development should extend beyond roads and conventional infrastructure.
“We also focused on urban beautification—something often overlooked in favor of standard infrastructure like roads.”
The Motibagh project demonstrates how beautification can simultaneously drive tourism, local business growth and community well-being.
Today, the site includes:
- MH21 Chowpatty
- Landscaped gardens
- Traffic Park
- Sunset View Point
- Illuminated walkways
- Public seating areas
- Parking facilities
- Recreational zones
- Upcoming children’s play equipment
The space has become one of the district’s most popular public destinations.
“Over a thousand people visit it daily. Actually, a thousand is an understatement; the place is always packed.”
The growing footfall has generated livelihood opportunities for vendors and small businesses while creating a vibrant social gathering space.
A Hub of Happiness and Community Ownership
Beyond infrastructure and economic metrics lies a more important outcome – citizen happiness. Thousands of residents now use Motibagh every week for recreation, family outings, exercise and social interaction.
The project has strengthened community ownership of public spaces while promoting environmental awareness, civic responsibility and cultural pride.
“Everyone leaves happy. Happiness is crucial for the citizens. Without it, the joy of living in the city is lost.”
Transforming a District Through Vision
The Motibagh Beautification Initiative stands as a powerful example of how thoughtful leadership can transform public spaces into engines of economic growth, social engagement and civic pride.
Under the leadership of IAS officer Ashima Mittal, a neglected lakeside has evolved into a symbol of modern Jalna – cleaner, greener, more vibrant and more ambitious.
But perhaps the most significant achievement lies not in the walkways, sculptures or food courts. It lies in the larger message the project sends: that development is not only about building infrastructure; it is about building confidence.
As Jalna enters its “Rising Jalna” phase, Motibagh serves as a visible reminder that with vision, community participation and determined execution, even the most overlooked spaces can become symbols of transformation and hope.
