Early Times Report RAMBAN, Jan 18: As part of the ongoing UT-wide awareness drive, Commissioner Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Hashmat Ali Yatoo presided over a one-day workshop on the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA) and "Eat Right" initiatives. The event was organized by the Food Safety Department in collaboration with the District Administration Ramban. The workshop, aimed at promoting food safety and public health, was attended by Deputy Commissioner Food Safety, FDA Division Jammu, Madan Lal Magotra; Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Ramban, Dev Dutt Sharma; CMO Ramban, Kamal Ji Zadu; Nodal Officer Yoga AYUSH; Tariq Ahmed Butt Retd Dy Commissioner Food Safety; Food Safety Officer Balbir Singh; representatives from Beopar Mandal; ICDS workers; and other stakeholders. The program featured interactive sessions on key topics such as food fortification in ICDS and Mid-Day Meals, hygienic practices in food preparation, the deployment of Mobile Food Testing Vans, hygiene ratings, and the significance of FoSTaC (Food Safety Training and Certification) programs. Departments including Ayush, Agriculture, Horticulture, ICDS, and Education showcased their contributions towards food safety and promoting healthy eating through informative stalls. In his address, the Commissioner stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to enhance consumer safety and public welfare. He encouraged participants to take ownership in fostering a safe and healthy food environment, aligning with the objectives of the "Eat Right" initiatives. Other speakers, including Deputy Commissioner Food Safety, CMO Ramban, and Assistant Commissioner Food Safety Ramban, highlighted the need to adhere to food safety regulations and adopt best practices to protect public health. The Commissioner also urged stakeholders, especially the general public, to actively participate in the drive to make the "Eat Right" initiatives a success in the district. Participants appreciated that the department for organizing the workshop marked a significant step towards strengthening food safety measures in Ramban, developing a healthier community, and reinforcing the importance of "Eat Right" initiatives in the region. |