Mumbai is considering the launch of a program that would deploy a team of 50 young individuals, referred to as ‘civic fellows,’ to address issues such as potholes, waste management, and deficiencies in public transport. This initiative, proposed by BJP corporator Tejinder Singh Tiwana, aims to enhance oversight and expedite resolutions across various city wards, utilizing mobile applications and offering stipends to participants.
The initiative, named the ‘Mayor Next Gen Civic Fellows Programme,’ has been submitted for consideration and will be discussed by the general body panel later this month. In a motion dated February 23, Tiwana emphasized the need for innovative approaches to tackle urban challenges, including road maintenance, waste collection and segregation, public transport, and overall sanitation in Mumbai.
To implement this forward-thinking strategy, Tiwana has suggested recruiting 50 educated and trained youths, aged 18 to 25, as interns under the proposed programme. He noted, “This initiative will enhance the monitoring of civic services and engage the youth in administrative tasks, thereby improving both efficiency and transparency within civic administration. The interns would receive a fixed stipend for their contributions.”
According to Tiwana’s plan, the pilot project could begin in 10 city wards, where the interns would be responsible for inspections and reporting. He proposed that complaints be submitted through a mobile application, which would facilitate quicker resolution of civic issues. Tiwana urged the BMC to adopt this pilot project to maximize youth involvement in municipal operations.
The proposal has been presented to the civic general meeting and is scheduled for discussion later this month. If approved by a vote, it will move forward to the municipal administration for implementation.
This initiative follows remarks made by Mumbai Mayor Ritu Tawde during her inaugural address on February 11, where she committed to overseeing the establishment of a Gen Z internship program aimed at boosting youth engagement in policymaking and administrative functions.
Previously, in early 2025, Mumbai BJP president Ameet Satam had also proposed a similar scheme to involve 50 interns across the city to enhance civic governance as part of his outreach to young voters ahead of the municipal elections.
Stay informed about the latest developments by following us on Instagram.
