 Early Times Report
RAJOURI, Dec 13: Hashmat Ali Yatoo, Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) J&K, led an interaction-cum-awareness workshop at Mahajan Palace, New Bus Stand, Rajouri, with over 200 stakeholders in attendance. The workshop focused on the effective implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, along with various government initiatives aimed at ensuring the provision of safe, hygienic, and quality food. The event included informative stalls on food fortification, organic food, and local spices, along with booths from Agriculture, Horticulture, and AYUSH departments. Nodal officers from Eat Right Schools, teachers from Mid Day Meals, and ICDS workers were also present. As part of the event, a License-Cum-Registration Mela was held, resulting in 80 on-the-spot registrations.
In his address, Commissioner Yatoo outlined the guidelines for proper food safety implementation, emphasizing food fortification and the role of various schemes, including Eat Right initiatives and the protection of public health. He also addressed grievances and discussed the need for enhanced steps to ensure safe food. Key officials, including Sanjeev Gupta (Joint Commissioner, Food Safety) and the Deputy Commissioner of Food Safety, Jammu Division, highlighted various aspects of food safety, such as hygiene ratings, surveillance, and training programs for ASHA and Anganwadi workers. The importance of food fortification in Mid Day Meals, PDS, and ICDS was also discussed.
Rajesh Gupta, President of Beopar Mandal Rajouri, and Susheel Sharma, President of the Bakers Association, praised the efforts of the FDA and expressed support for the department's initiatives. The media also covered the event, with Commissioner Yatoo explaining the workshop's objectives and goals.
The workshop underscored the department's commitment to combat food adulteration, with prompt actions taken in response to recent food poisoning incidents in Badal. The FDA has vowed to continue its efforts in ensuring food safety and public health across the state. |
