IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe, known for his uncompromising stance against corruption and negligence, has taken charge as the Commissioner of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May 2026. Within weeks of his appointment, Mundhe initiated a sweeping, statewide campaign to combat food adulteration, unhygienic food production, and illegal trade practices across Maharashtra.
Aggressive Enforcement Targets Unsafe Food Practices
Mundhe's leadership has marked a significant shift in the FDA's enforcement strategy. The department has intensified surprise inspections, leading to the suspension of licenses, sealing of manufacturing units, and initiation of criminal proceedings against violators. This proactive approach aims to ensure that consumers have access to safe food and medicines, while sending a clear message that food safety regulations will be strictly enforced.
Among the high-profile actions under Mundhe's tenure was the temporary suspension of Mumbai's iconic K. Rustom & Co. ice cream parlour. FDA inspectors uncovered serious hygiene violations, including the presence of live rats and flies, expired ingredients, and lapses in cold-chain maintenance and record-keeping. Mundhe affirmed that heritage status would not excuse public health compromises.
Major Seizures and Warnings Issued
The FDA's operations have yielded substantial results. In one of its largest operations to date, officials seized edible oil valued at nearly ₹2.93 crore from a manufacturing unit in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The unit was found to have unsafe production conditions, rusted machinery, and a complete absence of quality-control systems.
Furthermore, Mundhe has issued warnings regarding the proliferation of fake paneer, highlighting that nearly 40% of tested samples failed safety standards. He emphasized that milk and dairy products remain high-risk categories requiring continuous surveillance. The statewide campaign has resulted in hundreds of raids, arrests, First Information Reports (FIRs), and the sealing of numerous establishments within a short period, underscoring the FDA's commitment to public health.