The Maharashtra State Commission for Higher Education and Development (MAHED) has approved a proposal allowing the Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University to establish affiliated colleges, marking a significant step in integrating skill-based education into the state's higher education system. Previously functioning as a unitary institution, the university will now offer approximately 19 skill-oriented undergraduate and postgraduate courses. This initiative is part of the state's broader strategy to enhance employability through the National Education Policy, which encourages traditional colleges to embed skill components into their programs. Officials have assured that the new courses will not overlap with existing offerings from traditional colleges, aiming instead to create a competitive educational environment. Additionally, MAHED has decided against permitting new pharmacy colleges in the state, focusing on optimizing the existing educational landscape.