Senior IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe, who has been transferred 25 times during his 21-year career, is once again in the spotlight. Appointed as the FDA Commissioner by the Maharashtra government in the first week of June, he immediately launched a fresh wave of raids and strict enforcement drives against adulterators and the illegal drug trade. He has clearly stated that this campaign is not directed at any specific individual but is a well-planned move to safeguard public health, and that honest businesses have no reason to fear it.
Senior IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe currently serves as the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Maharashtra. He is renowned for his strict stance against corruption and his disciplined approach. Prior to assuming the role of FDA Commissioner in June, he had undergone transfers in March and April as well; these marked his 24th and 25th transfers, moving him from the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities to the Revenue Department.
Since taking charge as FDA Commissioner, he has initiated surprise inspections and stringent enforcement actions across the state, earning him widespread praise from the general public and on social media. His work style has led to comparisons with Haryana’s famous IAS officer Ashok Khemka. Due to his bold and uncompromising style, Mundhe is often referred to as “Singham” and the “Man of Mission.” He is known for refusing to yield to political pressure and for taking direct action against the sand mafia, land mafia, and corrupt officials.
Tukaram Mundhe was born on June 3, 1975, in Tadsona village, Beed district, Maharashtra. He hailed from a very humble background. He received his early education at a Zilla Parishad school before moving to Aurangabad for higher studies. He earned a bachelor’s degree in History and a master’s degree in Political Science. After clearing the UPSC examination in 2005, he became an IAS officer. His first posting as an IAS officer was in Solapur, where he immediately crippled the mafia by conducting continuous raids on illegal liquor dens, shooting to fame overnight.