Maharashtra Official Says Healthy Human Resources Key to Superpower Status

Tukaram Mundhe, a Maharashtra health official, said the country cannot become a superpower unless its human resources are healthy. He urged citizens to prioritise public health and highlighted the responsibilities of online food delivery platforms in ensuring food safety.

Mundhe said, "Citizens at large need to make public health the most important issue. We cannot become a superpower if our human resources are not healthy." He noted that online food ordering and delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato are legally food business operators, but they do not always take food safety seriously.

On the issue of substandard and spurious medicines in Maharashtra, Mundhe acknowledged the problem but said, "It is there, but very difficult to quantify." He has instructed his officers to intensify inspections. Regarding manpower, he said most sanctioned posts are filled except for drug inspectors, as the recruitment exam was cancelled. A roadmap and proposal have been submitted to the government to address this.

Mundhe also mentioned that a hearing was postponed due to a public holiday, but the notice has been reissued and further action is being considered.