Chandigarh: A high-level review meeting was held today under the chairmanship of the Chairman, Punjab State Food Commission, to assess the progress and implementation of Nutritional Gardens in schools, School Health Programs, and awareness initiatives under the National Food Security Act, 2013 across the state.
The meeting took stock of the establishment and functioning of Nutritional Gardens in government schools as a means to promote dietary diversity and inculcate healthy eating habits among children. The Chairman emphasized that these gardens should not remain symbolic but must be integrated into the school curriculum to provide students with hands-on learning about nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and food security.
Officials were also directed to ensure regular maintenance, cleanliness of kitchens, adequate training for cooks engaged with regard to prepare the Mid-Day Meals in order to ensure nutritious food for the children.
On the School Health Program, the Commission reviewed measures being undertaken for health screening, growth monitoring, and hygiene practices in schools. The Chairman stressed the importance of early identification of malnutrition and coordinated action between the Departments of Health, Education, and Food & Civil Supplies to address nutritional deficiencies at the school level.
The Commission also evaluated the awareness campaign on the provisions of the NFSA, 2013*, including entitlements under the Public Distribution System, grievance redressal mechanisms, and food safety standards. It was noted that sustained outreach through Panchayati Raj Institutions, self-help groups, and community participation is essential to ensure that eligible beneficiaries are informed of their rights and can access benefits without barriers. The Chairman directed district-level officers to intensify IEC activities and adopt innovative channels such as local media, schools, and Anganwadi centers for wider dissemination.
Concluding the meeting, the Chairman laid, emphasis on conduct of monthly review, meetings at the District level on above said issues and revealed that the top 3 Schools and Anganwadis would be acknowledged at the State level.
The Chairman further reiterated that food security is integral to human dignity and called for inter-departmental coordination and timely reporting to strengthen transparency and accountability in implementation. He urged all stakeholders to adopt a proactive approach to ensure that no child or household is deprived of the right to adequate and nutritious food. Among others present on the occasion included the Commission Members Vijay Dutt, Jasvir Singh Sekhon and Member Secretary Kanu Thind.
