Maharashtra to Set Up Pune-Based Special Task Force to Crack Down on Illegal IVF Centres

Pune, 2nd July 2026 : In a significant move to curb alleged malpractices in fertility treatment, Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar on Wednesday announced in the state Assembly that the government will establish a special task force headquartered in Pune to monitor the functioning of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) centres across the state.

The announcement came during a discussion in the Assembly on the growing number of IVF clinics and allegations that some centres were operating illegal fertility rackets. Legislators referred to a recent case reported in Badlapur and urged the government to take stringent action against those involved in unlawful practices.

Responding to the concerns, Abitkar said the government has taken serious note of the rapid increase in IVF centres across Maharashtra and stressed that stricter oversight is now essential.

«”The number of IVF centres coming up in the state is alarming, and the government has taken note of it. These centres will be monitored strictly,” the health minister said.»

According to the minister, the Pune-based task force will deploy flying squads to conduct surprise inspections at IVF clinics as well as hospitals registered under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. Any irregularities detected during these inspections will invite immediate action from the authorities.

«”Flying squads of the task force will carry out surprise checks of IVF centres and all hospitals registered under the PCPNDT Act. If any irregularities are found, immediate action will be taken against those responsible,” Abitkar stated.»

During the discussion, several MLAs also called for a tougher legal framework, suggesting that offences under the PCPNDT Act should be treated on the lines of the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act (MCOCA) to effectively tackle organised medical rackets.

Responding to the demand, Abitkar informed the House that the Health Department has already held three meetings with officials from the Law and Judiciary Department to examine the legal provisions required for stronger enforcement.

«”The government will bring a law before the next Assembly session to treat violations of the PCPNDT Act like organised crime,” the minister said.»

The proposed measures are aimed at strengthening regulatory oversight, preventing illegal practices in fertility treatment, and ensuring that IVF services across Maharashtra operate within the framework of the law.