Mohali; Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria inaugurated the “Eat Right Walkathon and Mela” at GD Goenka Public School in Mohali on Saturday, highlighting the importance of nutrition and balanced food habits for the nation’s future.
In his address, the Governor said that the country’s youth can serve as its real strength only when they are raised on safe, nutritious and balanced diets. He emphasized that the ‘Eat Right’ campaign is not just a slogan but a lifestyle that must be adopted in everyday life.
Kataria cautioned against the rising threat of lifestyle-related illnesses such as diabetes, obesity and hypertension, and urged citizens to incorporate traditional foods, especially millets, into their meals. He underlined that good nutrition, clean water, hygiene and regular exercise were essential to maintaining both physical health and mental well-being.
The Governor praised the Centre for declaring 2018 as the National Year of Millets and acknowledged that 2023 had been marked as the International Year of Millets, which has encouraged people to embrace these grains once again.
Applauding the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Kataria noted that the Eat Right India Movement and initiatives like the Blissful Hygiene Rating are creating awareness about safe, sustainable food practices across both cities and villages.
The event drew enthusiastic participation from nutritionists, health experts, students and fitness enthusiasts. While the Walkathon symbolized a joint pledge towards healthier lifestyles, the Mela offered engaging exhibits and awareness activities on balanced food choices.
Governor Kataria congratulated the organisers and expressed confidence that such efforts will continue to inspire healthier diets and exercise, contributing to the vision of a stronger and healthier India.
The event was organised by GD Goenka Public School and The Red Carpet Ventures in association with FSSAI and the Punjab Food and Drug Administration, with support from Herbalife.