Pune, April 16 Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday performed the foundation-laying ceremony for the Lata-Asha Mangeshkar Institute of Medical Sciences at Nandoshi, Pune.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister assured that the state government remains committed to supporting charitable organisations dedicated to public service.
He highlighted that the upcoming hospital project by the Lata Mangeshkar Medical Foundation is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for patient care.
To ensure the project’s success, the Chief Minister announced that the Municipal Corporation will provide adequate road connectivity and water supply to the hospital.
The state government is considering reducing premium charges for building permissions for charitable institutions.
“Affordable and quality healthcare is the need of the hour. While many charitable projects lean towards commercialisation, the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital has set a benchmark for selfless service. I am confident the Lata-Asha project will carry forward this legacy,” Fadnavis stated.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister paid an emotional tribute to the late Asha Bhosle, noting how she transformed life’s hardships into positivity.
He said the Mangeshkar family has served the nation through music and philanthropy, adding that even in her 90s, Ashatai’s three-hour performances were “supernatural.”
He described the hospital as a testament to their commitment to the country.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde described the day as a fortunate one for Maharashtra. He emphasised that the hospital would offer a “warmth of humanity” to patients.
“This project will give a new lease of life to thousands. I suggest the hospital incorporate music therapy, using the divine voices of Lata Didi and Asha Tai as a form of healing,” Shinde remarked.
He further hailed Asha Bhosle as the “Manbindu” (symbol of pride) of Marathi identity.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsanghchalak Mohan Bhagwat, who was also present, emphasised that education and health must be accessible and affordable for all.
He said that when there is a sense of belonging, service happens naturally.
“Bringing all medical treatments under one roof, as planned here, significantly reduces the burden on patients. Such selfless projects are essential for a cohesive society,” Bhagwat noted.
Dhananjay Kelkar, Trustee of the Lata Mangeshkar Medical Foundation, provided insights into the project. The institute is being developed across 40 acres in memory of the legendary sisters and aims to be one of the largest and most comprehensive medical facilities in the country, featuring a specialised cancer centre and a rehabilitation hub.
--IANS
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