State food commission member inspects govt schools in Nawanshahr

The member of the Punjab State Food Commission, Vijay Dutt, today conducted inspections at various government schools, Anganwadi Centres, and government ration depots in Nawanshahr district. The inspections aimed to review the on-ground implementation of nutrition and food security schemes operating under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

During inspections, Dutt emphasised on the need to develop kitchen gardens in government schools. He said, “Kitchen gardens are one of the most effective ways to educate children about nutritious food, green vegetables, and the importance of a balanced diet.”

He instructed the staff of schools where kitchen gardens were not yet established, must immediately identify suitable land and develop them.

He thoroughly examined school kitchens, food storage systems, sanitation conditions, and the quality of mid-day meals. Dutt also instructed that regular health check-ups of mid-day meal workers be ensured.

While interacting with students, he inquired about the quality of their mid-day meals and also joined them for lunch. He further directed that the quality of drinking water in schools must be tested periodically by the department concerned to ensure that children receive safe and clean drinking water at all times.

Dutt also paid surprise visits to schools, Anganwadi centres, and ration depots in Rahon town, the Rotan area and Usmanpur village. While interacting with beneficiaries at ration depots, he instructed District Food and Supply Controller (DFSC) Sanjogita to ensure immediate redressal of complaints received from the public.

He said all schools, Anganwadi Centres, and government ration depots must prominently display the Punjab State Food Commission’s complaint and helpline number 9876764545, so that beneficiaries could easily register their grievances whenever required.

Dutt made it clear that any negligence related to children’s health, nutrition, and food safety would not be tolerated. If any irregularities were detected during inspections, strict action would be taken against responsible officials, he said. Deputy DEO Lakhvir Singh and other officials were also present during inspections.