In a historic move, the Maharashtra government has modified its rules of procedure for the first time to clearly define the roles of the Governor, Chief Minister (CM), and Chief Secretary (CS). The revisions, which received the cabinet’s approval this week, aim to create a more accountable and efficient governance system, ensuring smoother functioning of the state’s administration.
State Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik outlined the government’s vision of enhancing operational clarity by detailing the specific roles and responsibilities of key positions in the state. According to her, one of the key reforms includes a new framework for file clearance. Now, the state government will have a minimum of four levels and a maximum of six levels for clearance of files, streamlining decision-making and ensuring quicker processing.
This marks the first time that such comprehensive rules of procedure have been laid down. Previous rules, drafted in 1975 and revised in 1990 and 2019, contained only 15 basic guidelines without much detail. In contrast, the newly revised Maharashtra Government Rules of Procedure now consists of 48 rules, four schedules, and an annexure, divided into nine parts. The revisions include provisions on matters to be brought before the cabinet, approval processes by the Chief Minister and Governor, and procedures for the Council of Ministers.
One of the significant updates is the adoption of the Kerala model, where the Chief Secretary will play a more active coordinating role. The CS will now serve as the member-secretary to the cabinet and will coordinate with all departments to ensure better inter-departmental communication.
Another noteworthy change is that all government orders will now be signed by the under-secretary, rather than the desk officer, marking an important shift in administrative responsibilities.
With these changes, Maharashtra seeks to improve administrative efficiency and governance accountability, ensuring that the roles of key officials are well-defined and that day-to-day government operations proceed more smoothly.
