Located in the northeastern region of Maharashtra, Gadchiroli is a remote tribal district nestled within the Deccan plateau. Known for its dense forests, hilly landscapes, and indigenous tribal culture, this district is both geographically and socio-economically isolated. With an estimated population of around 11.98 lakh as of 2025, a substantial portion of the residents belong to Scheduled Tribes who have preserved their traditional way of life amidst modern-day challenges. The terrain, although scenic, poses a significant barrier to development and healthcare access, making it one of India’s most underserved regions.
Agriculture is the primary source of livelihood for most people in Gadchiroli. Paddy is the dominant crop, and subsistence farming is widely practiced. Other produce includes jowar, wheat, tur, and linseed. In addition, the collection of forest products, daily wage labor, and work in rice mills or the few existing industries—such as the Paper Mill in Chamorshi and the Tussar Silk Worm Centre in Armori—contribute to the local economy. However, these occupations demand intense physical labor, which over time results in widespread spinal issues like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and chronic back pain.
Despite the prevalence of such ailments, the region suffers from a stark shortage of specialized healthcare. Most villages are cut off from major hospitals, and the absence of spine specialists means that people endure pain for years without proper diagnosis or treatment. For many, the idea of seeking surgery in urban centers like Nagpur or Mumbai is economically and logistically out of reach. With minimal public transportation and limited awareness about spine health, Gadchiroli remains medically vulnerable.
Culturally, the district is vibrant and deeply rooted in tribal customs. Folk dances like Dander, Gondi, and Gondhali are part of the community’s collective identity. Seven languages are spoken in the district—Gondi, Madiya, Marathi, Hindi, Telugu, Bengali, and Chhattisgarhi—reflecting its diverse tribal makeup. Despite this rich heritage, literacy levels remain relatively low. Economic hardships and geographic isolation often force children to drop out early, leading to a lack of health awareness, especially regarding preventive care and spinal hygiene.
Amid these challenges, The Spine Foundation (TSF) has emerged as a beacon of hope. Since 2007, TSF has been conducting spine camps in Gadchiroli to provide specialized spine care to those with no other access. Collaborating with SEARCH (Society for Education, Action and Research in Community Health), founded by the renowned Dr. Abhay and Dr. Rani Bang, TSF bridges the healthcare gap through a holistic approach. Together, they offer free consultations, screenings, life-changing surgeries, physiotherapy guidance, and community health education in local languages to ensure no patient is left behind due to communication barriers.
One of the most notable efforts was the Gadchiroli Surgical Spine Camp held from March 13th to 17th, 2024, where 24 patients underwent crucial spine surgeries. The journey began in Mumbai, where TSF’s doctors coordinated with healthcare experts from the Dutta Meghe Institute. The team then travelled into the forested interiors of Gadchiroli, setting up base at SEARCH Hospital to deliver world-class surgical care. For these patients, it was not just treatment—it was the beginning of a new life, free from the confines of pain and immobility.
Another significant camp took place from July 10th to 14th, 2024, during which 27 transformative spine surgeries were conducted. Patients who arrived with debilitating conditions and hopelessness left with mobility, confidence, and relief. Again, the November 20th to 24th, 2024 camp marked a crucial milestone, where 26 patients with serious spinal conditions like stenosis and herniated discs received timely, expert care. These camps did not just provide medical solutions; they restored dignity, independence, and hope.
The Ministry of Rural Development and various donors have played vital roles in supporting these initiatives, allowing TSF to scale its operations and consistently return to Gadchiroli to serve more people. Donations help cover costs of transport, surgical equipment, medications, and the logistics needed to run camps in such remote areas.
Gadchiroli represents the very essence of The Spine Foundation’s mission—to deliver high-quality, affordable spine care to India’s most underserved communities In a district long overshadowed by neglect and adversity, each surgery and each camp echoes with a promise: that no one should suffer in silence or be denied the right to a pain-free life.