Pune: State food and drug administration (FDA) minister Narhari Zirwal informed the Legislative Assembly on Thursday that law enforcement by his department saw a marked improvement after IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe took charge as the FDA commissioner.The minister’s statement came during a discussion on the widespread availability of adulterated mango pulp. The issue was raised by MLA Satyajeet Deshmukh (Shirala), who pointed out that illicit manufacturing units were operating in the Maval tehsil of Pune district.Responding to the concerns, minister Zirwal confirmed that the department had received numerous complaints regarding substandard mango pulp in Maval, Khed, Panvel, and surrounding areas. “Based on this information, the FDA raided a factory in Urse village in Maval,” Zirwal said. “The team seized sugar, milk, and various chemicals used for adulteration. Six samples of the pulp have been sent to FDA laboratories, and further action will be taken once the reports are received.”During the debate, BJP MLA Yogesh Sagar noted that while adulterated mango pulp is sold year-round, significant action was rarely taken in the past. He attributed the recent string of successful raids to the leadership of the new FDA commissioner.Acknowledging the claim, Zirwal said, “It is true that while the laws existed previously, their enforcement has become significantly more effective after Mundhe took charge. We are committed to ensuring continuation if this momentum.”The minister also highlighted a massive surge in public engagement following the recent enforcement drives. He revealed that the FDA helpline, which previously received only a few hundred calls, is now being “flooded” with thousands of complaints. “We will ensure that every complaint is addressed properly,” he told the House.
