Pune: Ajit Pawar Inaugurates 43 ‘Aapla Davakhana’ Clinics, Lays Foundation for State Family Welfare Building
Pune, 25th April 2025: Healthy citizens form the foundation of a progressive state, and the Maharashtra government is committed not only to enhancing healthcare services but also to building a holistically healthy state, said Deputy Chief Minister and Pune District Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar.
He was speaking at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the State Family Welfare Building and Training Center, along with the inauguration of 43 new ‘Aapla Davakhana’ clinics under the Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Aapla Davakhana Scheme. The event was held at the Family Welfare Building premises in Pune.
Also present at the ceremony were Health and Family Welfare Minister Prakash Abitkar, Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council Dr. Neelam Gorhe, State Health Services Commissioner and Managing Director of the National Health Mission Amgothu Shree Ranga Nayak, and other dignitaries.
‘No Denial Policy’ to Be Implemented
Deputy CM Pawar emphasized that the addition of the new Family Welfare Building and the 43 ‘Aapla Davakhana’ clinics will significantly strengthen the state’s healthcare infrastructure, making services more efficient and accessible.
Referring to a recent incident at Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital, where a pregnant woman reportedly died due to delayed treatment, Pawar assured that an investigation is underway and strict action will be taken against those found responsible.
He also announced that the government will soon implement a ‘No Denial Policy’, under which no hospital—public or private—will be allowed to refuse emergency medical treatment. “This policy will ensure that no citizen is denied critical care under any circumstances,” he said.
Focus on Urban Poor and Administrative Efficiency
Speaking at the event, Health Minister Abitkar stated, “Pune is the second most important city in the state in terms of healthcare services. Several state-level health offices are based here. The new Family Welfare Building will consolidate all related departments under one roof, improving both administrative efficiency and service delivery.”
He added that the 43 newly inaugurated clinics, including seven located in Pune city, are aimed at providing quality healthcare, especially to the urban poor and slum dwellers. He stressed that the upcoming welfare building should be completed on time and must feature modern amenities.
Expansion of Public Health Services
Dr. Neelam Gorhe underlined the importance of the public health department from a social perspective. “The department has played a critical role in implementing various health initiatives, especially in rural and remote areas. This commitment to reaching every citizen will continue,” she said.
New Mechanized Laundry and Diagnostic Lab Announced
Minister Abitkar also announced two key healthcare infrastructure projects:
Mechanized Laundry Services: To maintain hygiene in hospitals, 593 government health institutions across eight regions of Maharashtra will be equipped with automated laundry facilities.
Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory: In preparation for managing potential epidemics, a state-of-the-art Molecular Diagnostic Lab will be established at the Public Health Laboratory in Pune. This facility will enable rapid testing for bacterial and viral infections.
The event marks a significant step toward strengthening Maharashtra’s public healthcare system, with an emphasis on inclusivity, efficiency, and modern infrastructure.
