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.

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

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.

This new proposal aligns with a broader healthcare reform effort spearheaded by the Maharashtra government.

Also Read: Maharashtra to revamp healthcare facilities with ADB's Support

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that 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.