In Maharashtra, the 'Arogya Sathi' initiative empowers women sugarcane cutters by training them to provide essential healthcare services in labor camps. Launched by the Beed district administration in partnership with the Mahila Ustod Kamgar Sanghatana, the program selects one volunteer for every 100 workers, linking them to Primary Health Centres (PHCs) for training. This year, 923 women were trained to handle common health issues such as injuries, fever, and menstrual health, enabling them to assist their peers in remote locations where medical access is limited. Between November 2023 and March 2024, these trained women conducted 855 interventions, treating 349 patients and saving workers around ₹4.27 lakh (approximately $5,200 USD) in healthcare costs. Despite its positive impact, the program has faced criticism for rushed implementation and inadequate training, with reports of women from influential families being prioritized over actual laborers. The initiative's success hinges on proper training and support, as well as collaboration with sugar companies to ensure that workers do not lose wages while seeking treatment. The Beed district administration plans to review the program to address these gaps before further expansion.