Affordable Healthcare for Women in Rural India

In the remote regions of Maharashtra, healthcare is often out of reach - too far, too expensive, or simply unavailable. For families surviving on daily wages, illness can mean the loss of income, independence, and dignity. Mann Deshi Foundation’s Community Healthcare Programme was created to bridge this gap. Through affordable clinics, diagnostic labs, and outreach in underserved villages, we are delivering timely care to those who need it most.

This report shares five real stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed through Mann Deshi’s compassionate and accessible healthcare services.

Tukaram: A Shepherd's Journey to Recovery

Tukaram, 58, spends every day walking long distances under the blazing sun, herding his sheep across the hilly terrain of Palsawade. With no fixed mealtime and an irregular routine, his diabetes, which had plagued him for six years, worsened silently. The swelling in his legs and frequent fatigue made it harder to keep up with his flock, threatening his livelihood.

When he heard about the Mann Deshi Health Centre from a fellow villager, he decided to give it a try - something changed. Within just a month of receiving care at the clinic, his blood sugar levels dropped significantly, and his energy returned. Unlike other hospitals he had visited, where the treatment was expensive and ineffective, Mann Deshi offered not only affordable medicines and diagnostics but also kind and attentive care.

“For the first time in years, I feel like I’m in control of my health. I can walk again without exhaustion. And the medicines don’t cost me half my income.”

Surekha: A Mother Who Finally Found Relief

Surekha, 46, is a mother of three from Kasarwadi. For years, she battled arthritis and thyroid-related fatigue. Every couple of months, she was forced to spend INR 1000 or more at private labs for tests. Despite these high costs, her pain persisted. She couldn't walk for long periods, and her daily household work became increasingly difficult.

A neighbor told her about the Mann Deshi Lab, and everything changed. There, she found accurate diagnostics at one-third the cost - and quick results. Her reports came in within a day, and she was soon under treatment at the Mann Deshi Clinic. Within eight days, her arthritis pain, which had made everyday tasks unbearable, began to fade.

“Earlier, I spent so much money but got no relief. Here, I was treated with care - and it worked. I can move more easily and manage my home again.”

Latabai: From Chronic Illness to Earning Again

Latabai, a single mother from Valai village, works as a domestic helper to support her four children. For years, she suffered from constant pain - aching joints, swelling limbs, and a tiredness that never went away. She often had to skip work, putting her family’s survival at risk.

One day, a woman from her village told her about the Mann Deshi Health Center. Latabai walked in and found something she hadn’t found anywhere else - respect, affordability, and results. The doctors advised basic blood tests at the Mann Deshi Lab, where she was diagnosed with thyroid imbalance and low hemoglobin. Treatment began immediately. In just a month and a half, the swelling had reduced by 80%. Her energy came back. She was able to work again.

“I went to many doctors before and spent so much, but nothing helped. Here, they treated me like I mattered. Now I can work again and take care of my children.”

Thavru: Managing Diabetes, Regaining Dignity

Thavru, 50, lives in Mhaswad. Diagnosed with diabetes two years ago, he had been struggling to find consistent care. His monthly expenses on medications and check-ups were overwhelming. Despite visiting multiple doctors, his sugar levels remained high, and his anxiety about future complications grew.

Then a neighbor recommended Mann Deshi Health Centre. For two years now, Thavru has received continuous care - low-cost sugar monitoring, affordable medicines, and personal guidance on managing his diet. His condition has improved dramatically, and so has his confidence.

“Thanks to Mann Deshi, I don’t feel like a burden anymore. My sugar is under control, and I don’t have to choose between food and medicine.”

Jijabai: Farming Again Without Pain

Jijabai, a mother of three from Panvan, spends her days working in the fields. The physical strain of bending over crops caused chronic back pain that worsened over a year. She tried to push through the pain - because missing work meant no income - but her suffering became unbearable.

Someone in her village suggested Mann Deshi Health Centrel. There, she underwent an X-ray and blood tests, all at a cost she could afford. The doctor recommended a 10-day physiotherapy program. By the end of it, her pain had subsided significantly. She could walk and work with ease once more.

“Before, the pain was so bad I couldn’t sleep. Now, after just ten days of therapy, I can go to the field again. I feel like myself.”

Mann Deshi’s healthcare programme goes beyond treating illness - it restores livelihoods, relieves financial pressure, and brings hope back into people’s lives. Your support can help us reach more villages, equip more clinics, and serve more families like Tukaram’s, Surekha’s, and Latabai’s. By donating to us, you are making an investment in resilient rural communities and the health of those who need it most.

Join us in bringing healthcare to every doorstep.

Because no one should have to choose between food and medicine.

Links:

• Healthcare for All on Mann Deshi Foundation's Website