Mon Feb 23 05:56:47 UTC 2026: ### Egg Donation Racket Busted in Thane, Maharashtra; Health Minister Promises Swift Action

The Story:
Maharashtra Health Minister Prakash Abitkar has vowed a thorough investigation into an egg-donation racket operating in the Thane district, where poor women were allegedly exploited. The racket involved offering women between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per cycle to repeatedly donate eggs, which were then surgically extracted at IVF centers and sold for significant profits. Police have arrested three women in connection with the illegal trade, which operated out of a residential apartment and a sonography center in Joveli, Badlapur East.

Key Points:

  • An egg-donation racket exploiting poor women has been uncovered in Thane district, Maharashtra.
  • Women were offered between ₹25,000 and ₹30,000 per egg-donation cycle.
  • Eggs were surgically extracted at IVF centers and sold for profit.
  • Three women have been arrested in connection with the racket.
  • Prakash Abitkar, the Maharashtra Health Minister, has promised a thorough investigation and strict action against those involved.
  • A primary report is expected within two to three days.
  • The state government maintains a “zero-tolerance policy” on such matters.
  • Reconstruction of Thane Civil Hospital is nearing completion, increasing its capacity to 900 beds with specialized wings.

Key Takeaways:

  • The incident highlights the vulnerability of economically disadvantaged women to exploitation in the reproductive health sector.
  • The rapid response from the Health Minister indicates a commitment to addressing the issue and preventing future occurrences.
  • The involvement of IVF centers in the racket raises questions about regulation and oversight within the fertility industry.
  • The incident underscores the need for increased awareness and education among vulnerable populations regarding their reproductive rights.
  • The completion of the Thane Civil Hospital reconstruction signifies an investment in public healthcare infrastructure in the region.

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