Pune, April 16 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, inaugurated the foundation stone laying for the Lata-Asha Mangeshkar Institute of Medical Sciences in Nandoshi, Pune, on Thursday.

During his address, the Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government's dedication to backing charitable organizations committed to public welfare.

He emphasized that the forthcoming hospital initiative by the Lata Mangeshkar Medical Foundation will feature cutting-edge facilities aimed at enhancing patient care.

To facilitate the project's development, he announced that the Municipal Corporation would ensure proper road access and water supply to the hospital.

The state government is also evaluating the possibility of lowering premium charges for construction permits for charitable institutions.

“The demand for affordable and quality healthcare is pressing. While numerous charitable ventures veer towards commercialization, the Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital exemplifies altruistic service. I have faith that the Lata-Asha initiative will uphold this tradition,” Fadnavis remarked.

While addressing the attendees, he paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Asha Bhosle, reflecting on how she transformed adversities into positivity.

He commended the Mangeshkar family for their contributions to the nation through music and philanthropy, noting that even in her 90s, Asha Tai's three-hour performances were nothing short of “supernatural.”

He characterized the hospital as a symbol of their unwavering dedication to the country.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde referred to the day as a significant milestone for Maharashtra, stressing that the hospital would provide a “warmth of humanity” to its patients.

“This project is set to rejuvenate the lives of thousands. I propose that the hospital include music therapy, drawing on the divine voices of Lata Didi and Asha Tai as a healing method,” Shinde suggested.

He further praised Asha Bhosle as the “Manbindu” (a symbol of pride) of Marathi culture.

Present at the event, Mohan Bhagwat, the Sarsanghchalak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), stressed the importance of making education and healthcare accessible and affordable for everyone.

He noted that when a sense of community is established, service naturally follows.

“Centralizing all medical treatments at this facility will significantly ease the burden on patients. Such selfless initiatives are crucial for fostering a united society,” Bhagwat remarked.

Dhananjay Kelkar, a Trustee of the Lata Mangeshkar Medical Foundation, shared details about the project. It is being developed over 40 acres in honor of the iconic sisters and aspires to be one of the largest and most comprehensive medical centers in the nation, featuring a specialized cancer treatment center and a rehabilitation facility.