Popularity was never my goal; what matters is public health: Tukaram Mundhe

Mumbai, Maharashtra - FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has stated that his primary focus is on public health, not personal popularity. Asked if his recent actions as a food-safety crusader have made him a celebrity, Mundhe replied, "Popularity was never my goal. 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, who has been in the role for 25 transfers of his 21-year career, said the food and drugs sector affects public health, and if his actions contribute to this goal, he will be satisfied. He emphasized that his enforcement approach is not aggressive, but rather a diligent execution of his duties over two decades of public service.

Mundhe highlighted that 12,083 establishments have been affected by his crackdown, with 5,269 receiving improvement notices and 603 facing suspension. He also noted that online food ordering and delivery platforms like Swiggy and Zomato are expected to comply with food safety regulations.