Oral Cancer Awareness and Preventive Dental Care Need More Focus: Minister Hasan Mushrif

Pune, 7th May 2026: Maharashtra Medical Education Minister Hasan Mushrif said that dental treatments related to oral surgeries have now been included under the Mahatma Jyotiba Phule Jan Arogya Yojana, marking a significant step toward accessible oral healthcare.

Highlighting the growing challenges of oral cancer, tooth decay, and gum diseases, Mushrif said dental institutions must take the lead in preventive healthcare and awareness campaigns, particularly in rural areas.

He was speaking at the 20th graduation ceremony organised by M. A. Rangoonwala College of Dental Sciences and Research Centre at Azam Campus. During the event, he inaugurated the college’s state-of-the-art digital simulation lab for pre-clinical dental training, aimed at strengthening practical learning before students begin patient treatment.

Among those present were Principal Dr. Ramandeep Dugal, Vice Principal (Academics) Dr. Vivek Hegde, Dr. Salika Sheikh, Vice Principal (Administration) Prof. Irfan Sheikh, Secretary of the M.C.E. Society, along with faculty members and students.

The newly launched digital simulation lab features 100 workstations equipped with Japanese-inspired dental mannequins, European-standard LED lighting, high-speed dental equipment, camera-assisted teaching systems, and large screens for live demonstrations. The facility is expected to help students practise and repeat procedures in a clinical-like environment, improving their confidence, precision, and preparedness before entering patient care.

Mushrif said the Maharashtra government is working to strengthen healthcare education through Centres of Excellence, internship programmes, and global collaborations under the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences. He noted that dentistry is rapidly evolving due to digital technology, artificial intelligence, simulation-based learning, and minimally invasive treatment methods.

He encouraged students and faculty members to focus on innovation, research, and indigenous development to ensure healthcare education effectively serves society.

Linking the new facility to this broader vision, Dr. Ramandeep Dugal said, “Modern dental education must prepare students not only for examinations, but also for real-world practice and social responsibility. This digital simulation lab allows students to practise early, understand patient comfort, and become more prepared before entering clinical years.”

He added that the institution’s tobacco cessation unit and public health dentistry initiatives align with the government’s focus on prevention, awareness, and improved oral healthcare access.

Mushrif further said India has the capability not only to adopt technology but also to develop it. Keeping this in mind, he said, the Maharashtra government remains committed to strengthening healthcare education infrastructure.

He described the 25-year journey of the institution as “not merely a milestone in time, but a symbol of vision, discipline, and consistent excellence.”

The minister also praised the vision and dedication of Dr. P. A. Inamdar, stating that under his leadership, the institution has positively impacted thousands of students and families. He said such institutions are built not only on infrastructure, but also on sacrifice, values, and social commitment.

According to the institution, it has produced 1,382 dental graduates and 505 postgraduate students so far and has developed a strong global alumni network.

The college has signed Memorandums of Understanding with several reputed institutions, including the University of Vienna, King’s College London, MIT College of Engineering, and other international and national academic bodies to strengthen research and academic collaboration.

Addressing the graduating students, Mushrif said that along with a degree comes a major responsibility. “Skills will make you successful, ethics will earn you respect, and compassion will ensure you are always remembered. Innovation, collaboration, and service to humanity will make your future more impactful and inspiring,” he said.

The minister later distributed degree certificates to graduating students, while student representatives also shared their experiences and thoughts during the ceremony.