DODA: A meeting of the District Level Advisory Committee (DLAC) was held today here under the chairmanship of District Magistrate, Harvinder Singh to discuss the effective implementation of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA) and related initiatives in Doda district. The meeting aimed to ensure the availability of safe, hygienic, and nutritious food for the public while addressing the challenges associated with food safety standards.
At the outset, Assistant Commissioner Food Safety, Dev Dutt Sharma, apprised the committee members, including ADC, SP, CMO, Dietician GMC Doda, CEO , CAO , and AD Food & Civil Supplies, about the current status of food safety in the district. He elaborated on various initiatives such as surveillance drives, use of Mobile Food Testing Vans (MFTV), Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC), Hygiene Ratings, RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil), BHOG (Blissful Hygienic Offering to God), and fortification of food under ICDS, PDS, and Mid-Day Meal schemes.
He further briefed about Training and awareness programs for ASHA and Anganwadi workers, vendors, and stakeholders. The District Magistrate directed the committee members to form dedicated squads for market inspections to ensure strict compliance with food safety standards. He stressed the need to conduct regular workshops and awareness drives for food vendors and businesses to align with government norms. Discussions also covered the importance of COPTA (Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act) in combating health hazards and promoting societal welfare.
The meeting concluded with valuable suggestions from the participants and a commitment to implementing food safety regulations effectively. Attendees included senior officials from various departments and professionals in food safety and nutrition, who pledged to uphold the quality standards necessary for public health and well-being.
