Maharashtra FDA Commissioner conducts 904 raids in first 100 days

IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe has completed his first 100 days as the Commissioner of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Since taking office on May 25, Mundhe has led an aggressive campaign against food adulteration and regulatory violations across the state.

During this period, the FDA conducted 904 raids, resulting in 457 arrests and the seizure of food products valued at approximately 34.7 crore rupees. The confiscated items included counterfeit paneer, adulterated milk, mislabeled cooking oils, and harmful synthetic colors. Additionally, 322 establishments were sealed for non-compliance.

The enforcement actions have not spared high-profile institutions, with inspections extending to the canteens of IIT Bombay and the Bombay High Court regarding unlicensed operations and hygiene standards. In total, the department has issued notices to over 12,000 establishments concerning issues such as poor sanitation and the use of substandard raw materials.