Dr. Ravindra Kolhe and Dr. Smita Kolhe: The Pioneers of Improving Tribal Healthcare in Maharashtra, India

Dr. Ravindra Kolhe and Dr. Smita Kolhe are the pioneers of improving tribal healthcare in Maharashtra, dedicating more than three and a half decades of their lives for the sake of the people in the remote Bairagarh village of the Melghat area. Their compassionate and resilient approach and a deep sense of social justice led to a dramatic improvement in maternal and child health with a noteworthy decline in the infant mortality rate. Apart from providing affordable healthcare services, the Kolhes have been pivotal in promoting sustainable agriculture to empower the local community to improve their livelihoods. Their relentless efforts have not only enhanced healthcare facilities in Bairagarh but also addressed broader social factors such as poverty, malnutrition, and infrastructure development. In recognition of their selfless service, the couple was awarded with the prestigious Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award. This narrative review article highlights their profound impact on tribal healthcare in one of Maharashtra's most underdeveloped regions.