Palghar, often known for being a prominent tribal district, must now focus on being a tourist destination, believes 35-year-old Virar native and Nalasopara MLA Kshitij Thakur. A Harvard graduate, Thakur wants the region to have a self-sustaining economy while retaining its tribal identity.

With every political party pushing forth its GenNext leader, the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi (BVA) led by MLA Hitendra Thakur too has joined the gang. Kshitij Thakur, as the star campaigner for the Palghar Lok Sabha constituency, is emphasising on a makeover for the district that is home to rich biodiversity and natural resources. These haven't been put to their best use, he believes. Citing Goa as an example, the GenNext politician said that Palghar was a "mini-Goa".