Maharashtra to Add 1,600 Hospital Beds by 2031

Maharashtra's public healthcare infrastructure is poised for a significant expansion with the approval of the PRAGATI initiative. This ambitious project will introduce 1,600 new hospital beds across five districts over the next five years, requiring an estimated investment of Rs 4,250 crore. The initiative, titled 'Primary Healthcare Reimagined with Advanced Governance and Accessible Technology Integration (PRAGATI)', aims to enhance specialized treatment availability.

The PRAGATI initiative is slated for implementation between 2026 and 2031. Key components include the construction of two 500-bed district hospitals in Kolhapur and Nanded, a 200-bed Regional Referral Hospital in Pune, and the upgrading of existing district hospitals in Latur and Nagpur to 200-bed facilities. This expansion will bolster the state's capacity to manage non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

A central focus of PRAGATI is the comprehensive approach to NCDs, encompassing prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment. Specialized services for conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, COPD, stroke, and mental health will be expanded. Additionally, screening and diagnostic capabilities for breast, cervical, and oral cancers will be enhanced.

Beyond physical infrastructure, PRAGATI will drive the digital transformation of Maharashtra's healthcare system through the Maharashtra Health Technology Mission. This includes expanding digital health records, integrating health information systems, and scaling up telemedicine services. The project seeks to improve access to specialized care, alleviate pressure on existing facilities, and strengthen early diagnosis and treatment across the state.