Ganesh Festival Turns Into Health Mission Across Maharashtra

CM’s Relief Fund Launches Free Check-Up Camps in 36 Districts With Doctors, Hospitals and Ganesh Mandals

In the festive spirit of Ganeshotsav, the Chief Minister’s Relief and Charitable Hospital Aid Cell has launched a state-wide initiative titled “Shree Ganesha Arogyacha”, offering free health check-up camps across all 36 districts of Maharashtra. The campaign was conceptualized by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with the aim of using the festival’s mass gatherings to spread health awareness and deliver free medical services to citizens.

The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Mahatma Phule Jan Arogya Yojana, government medical colleges, district hospitals, and charitable hospitals, with active participation from expert doctors. A unique feature is the involvement of Ganesh Mandals, which have opened their pandals or nearby spaces to host the camps. Citizens and devotees attending the celebrations are being screened for free.

The program goes beyond basic check-ups. Patients detected with illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, heart diseases, or cancer are being referred for free follow-up treatment under existing government schemes. Alongside treatment, awareness drives are being held to educate citizens about state and central health policies.

According to Rameshwar Naik, head of the CM Relief and Charity Cell, this is not just about diagnostics but also about creating lasting health awareness. Ganesh Mandals have been actively spreading word through banners, leaflets, and outreach campaigns over the past week, resulting in high participation from the public.

Officials believe this initiative represents an inclusive, citizen-focused model of healthcare, ensuring that even festival celebrations become an opportunity for improving public health access across Maharashtra.