Maharashtra to revamp healthcare facilities with ADB's Support

Thane: To upgrade Maharashtra's public healthcare infrastructure, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed state departments to initiate a comprehensive mission to strengthen health institutions across all levels — from sub-health centres to tertiary referral hospitals. The initiative supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), aims to ensure accessible, high-quality healthcare to all citizens. 

The directive was issued during a high-level review meeting held at Sahyadri Guest House in Mumbai, where the Chief Minister evaluated ongoing and upcoming projects under the Medical Education and Public Health departments. The meeting was attended by Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif, Public Health Minister Prakash Ambedkar, and senior departmental officials.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said the Asian Development Bank will provide a loan of Rs 4,000 crore to improve medical facilities in the state. The principal approval for the first tranche of Rs 1,200 crore has been given, he added.

Also Read: ADB approves Rs 4k crores loan to boost health infrastructure in Maharashtra

Focus on Cancer Care & National Health Strategies

He directed the Medical Education and Public Health departments to collaboratively submit a comprehensive project report aimed at strengthening healthcare infrastructure and enhancing the delivery of quality medical services. Additionally, he emphasized the need for innovative approaches to ensure accessible and effective healthcare for all citizens.

The Chief Minister also discussed ongoing efforts to set up new government medical colleges across Maharashtra. In districts where these colleges have already been launched, public hospitals are being directly linked to serve as teaching and treatment hubs. However, Fadnavis proposed the construction of independent hospitals in areas with dense populations and high patient loads.

According to The Hindu, in districts where new government medical colleges have already started, Mr. Fadnavis proposed assessing the requirement for independent teaching hospitals under the Medical Education Department. “A detailed infrastructure plan must be drawn up, clearly identifying locations where new hospitals are essential,” he said, specifically recommending that a new teaching hospital be set up in Dharashiv.

Also Read: As Maha govt gives nod for 18 medical colleges establishment, plan to begin 10 institutes this year hits roadblock

Mandatory Government Service for Postgraduates

To tackle the shortage of specialists in government hospitals, the Chief Minister proposed a policy mandating public service for postgraduate medical students after completion of their degrees.

Construction of new government hospitals is currently underway in Alibag and Sindhudurg, while tenders have been issued for similar facilities in Amravati, Washim, and Dharashiv. These projects form part of a broader state effort to develop a network of Centres of Excellence, capable of delivering specialized care and training.

According to the Hindu, an integrated Health Management Information System is also under development. Procurement of medical equipment is ongoing at Satara and Chandrapur government hospitals, as well as the Sir J. J. Super Speciality Hospital in Mumbai. Additionally, new institutions focused on organ donation and transplantation are in the pipeline.