Navi Mumbai: Maharashtra Forest Minister Ganesh Naik inaugurated a modern 650-seat auditorium at Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation’s (NMMC) CBSE School No. 94 in Sector 11, Kopar Khairane, and virtually launched 59 Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs across the civic area on the occasion of Dussehra.

The auditorium, located on the school’s fourth floor, is equipped with air-conditioning, modern sound and lighting systems, specialised acoustics and facilities for stage performances and audio-visual presentations. With a 650-square-foot stage, the venue will cater to school functions as well as social and cultural programmes.

Naik welcomed the civic body’s efforts to improve educational infrastructure and provide accessible healthcare. He expressed confidence that the new health centres would offer reliable services to residents close to their homes.

Mayor Sujata Patil said the corporation was prioritising quality education and providing modern facilities to support students’ overall development. She added that English-medium education from nursery onwards had received encouraging feedback from residents.

Former MP Sanjeev Naik described the auditorium as an alternative venue for public programmes and stressed the need for its proper maintenance. He also suggested introducing teleconsultation facilities at the health centres.

House Leader Sagar Naik said the auditorium, with its advanced technical infrastructure, was a Dussehra gift to Navi Mumbai residents. He urged citizens to make use of the new healthcare facilities.

Established under the National Urban Health Mission and the 15th Finance Commission, the 59 health centres will provide free primary healthcare, including treatment for minor illnesses, maternal and child healthcare, antenatal check-ups, vaccinations, blood tests and screening for diabetes and hypertension.

Several civic representatives and officials attended the inauguration.