Maharashtra News: Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Launches State-Wide Cancer Screening Drive For Women, Reviews Thane Hospital Project

Mumbai: Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the launch of a state-wide cancer screening campaign for women in municipal hospitals as a preventive healthcare measure. Highlighting the need for early detection, he emphasized awareness about breast and cervical cancer and stressed the importance of prevention over cure.

High-Level Review of Thane Hospital Construction

The directive came during a high-level review meeting chaired by Shinde at Mantralaya, where he assessed the ongoing construction of the Thane District General Hospital. He urged officials to expedite the work so the hospital can be operational at the earliest for the benefit of citizens across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

Thane Hospital to Benefit MMR Region

“This hospital will be a boon for citizens in Thane, Raigad, Navi Mumbai, and Palghar. Along with world-class medical equipment, the recruitment of 1,078 new staff positions should be fast-tracked,” said Shinde. He also instructed Principal Secretary Navin Sona to hold weekly review meetings every Tuesday to monitor the hospital’s progress.

900-Bed Multi-Facility Hospital Nearing Completion

The new hospital complex will house a 500-bed general hospital, a 200-bed women’s hospital, and a 200-bed super-specialty referral center, totaling 900 beds. About 80% of the construction is already complete, with ongoing work related to electrification and installation of medical equipment. The facility is expected to be ready by December this year.

Focus on Medicine and Supply Chain Efficiency

In addition to infrastructure development, Shinde emphasized improving the state’s healthcare delivery by ensuring timely availability of medicines and medical supplies in health centers. He instructed health officials, including the Health Minister and secretaries, to conduct surprise visits to assess the actual condition of hospitals and primary healthcare units.