Public health, not popularity, drives my work: Maharashtra FDA chief

The senior IAS officer, who has gained considerable attention for his stringent enforcement actions across the state, said personal recognition has never been a motivating factor in his work. "Popularity was never my goal," Mundhe told PTI. "What matters to me are issues like public health. This is not about Tukaram Mundhe. This is about India and the goal to improve public health."

Mundhe emphasized the critical link between food and drugs regulation and public welfare. "The food and drugs sector affects public health. If that becomes a public agenda by my actions and role, I will be happy about it," he said in an interview.

When asked whether his assertive enforcement approach exposes him to political or administrative pressure, Mundhe defended his methodology. "It is not aggressive. I am doing what I am supposed to do diligently," he said, noting that his approach reflects standards maintained throughout his two decades in public service.

The FDA chief's crackdown has drawn widespread attention in Maharashtra, with his initiatives bringing renewed focus to food safety standards and regulatory compliance across the state.