Maharashtra proposes 2 Cancer, 8 District Hospitals: Minister Prakash Abitkar

Mumbai: Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar announced on Thursday that the state government has proposed the construction of two cancer hospitals and eight district hospitals across the state to address the rising number of patients and reduce the dependence on expensive private healthcare services.

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Speaking to Hindustan Times, Abitkar said, “With a rapid rise in patients and expensive treatment at private facilities, the government has decided to build hospitals across the state. The health ministry has submitted a tentative proposal to the Asian Development Bank (ADB), requesting ₹8,000 crore in funding for the project. The state government has given preliminary approval for the plan prior to submission.” 

According to the minister, the initial project proposal and presentations have already been shared with ADB officials. A formal submission awaits final clearance from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

As part of the plan, the public health department has decided to set up two dedicated cancer hospitals and eight district-level hospitals across Maharashtra. According to officials, the cancer hospitals will be established in Aundh (Pune) and Nashik. The proposed district hospitals aim to bridge the gap in access to quality healthcare in semi-urban and rural areas.