Amritsar, May 21 (K.L. Jit Walia) – Punjab State Food Commission member Vijay Dutt conducted a surprise inspection of various government schools and Anganwadi centers in the Rayya area of Amritsar district on Wednesday. During the visit, he reviewed the ground-level implementation of schemes being run under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013.
During the inspection, Vijay Dutt examined mid-day meal arrangements, the quality of food being served to children, cleanliness standards, kitchen management, and the availability of drinking water. He directed the concerned officials and staff to ensure that children are provided with clean, nutritious, and quality food while strictly following all prescribed standards and guidelines.
He also encouraged schools and Anganwadi centers to develop “Kitchen Gardens” so that fresh and nutritious vegetables could be made available to children. In addition, he advised women cooks preparing mid-day meals to maintain proper hygiene and follow all health and safety standards while cooking food.
During the inspection, it was also observed that some schools did not have proper and updated information regarding the fixed day for distributing fruits to children during the week. The Punjab State Food Commission expressed concern over the issue. Vijay Dutt instructed officials to ensure that fruits and nutritious meals are provided to children on time as per the prescribed menu and government guidelines.
He further directed officials to ensure water quality through regular TDS testing of drinking water and to properly maintain the Food Test Register on a regular basis. He also emphasized the importance of regular health check-ups for children as well as mid-day meal cooks.
During the visit, Vijay Dutt interacted with the children and also shared a meal with them. He stated that the Punjab State Food Commission is fully committed to ensuring safe, clean, and nutritious food for children and that such surprise inspections will continue in the future as well.
He warned that any negligence regarding the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 and related welfare schemes would not be tolerated, and strict action would be taken against those found guilty.
He further added that if any individual has complaints or issues related to NFSA 2013 or associated schemes, they can register their complaints on the Punjab State Food Commission helpline number 9876764545.
KL JIT WALIA
