Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration chief Tukaram Mundhe is recognized for his rigorous food safety enforcement measures
Between June 1 and August 31, the department conducted 12,083 food inspections and collected 37,604 food and drug samples. It issued 5,269 improvement notices and suspended 603 food licences during the period. During a separate festive-season crackdown between September 23 and 27, the department suspended food licences and seized 50,601.78 kg of food stock worth Rs 1.19 crore across several divisions.
NEW DELHI: Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration chief Tukaram Mundhe has been dubbed a “rockstar” by The New York Times for his aggressive crackdown on food safety violations, with the American newspaper featuring the IAS officer on its front page and highlighting how his surprise inspections have turned routine regulatory enforcement into a highly visible campaign. The NYT described Mundhe as a “food safety celebrity” and highlighted the contrast between diners who revere him and restaurant owners who fear his inspections. Sharing the report on X, he said, “Good governance is not about making headlines. “Food safety is ultimately about protecting people, upholding standards and building public trust,” he said, adding that fair, fearless and consistent enforcement helps strengthen the credibility of institutions.
The international attention comes as the Maharashtra FDA steps up action against restaurants, food businesses, pharmacies, warehouses and other establishments across the state. Mundhe, however, sought to shift the focus from the international recognition to the larger purpose of food safety enforcement. It is about making a difference.