Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Punjab Food Commission reviews School Nutrition Drive, announces recognition for Top 3 Schools and Anganwadis
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, June 5, 2026: he Punjab State Food Commission on Thursday reviewed the implementation of Nutritional Gardens in schools, School Health Programmes, and awareness initiatives under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, with a focus on improving nutrition and food security across the state.
The high-level meeting was chaired by Bal Mukand Sharma, Chairman, Punjab State Food Commission, who stressed the need for effective grassroots implementation and stronger coordination among government departments.
During the meeting, officials assessed the progress of Nutritional Gardens established in government schools. Sharma emphasized that these gardens should serve as practical learning spaces where students can gain knowledge about nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and food security rather than remaining symbolic projects.
The Commission also directed authorities to ensure proper maintenance of school kitchens, uphold hygiene standards, and provide adequate training to cooks responsible for preparing Mid-Day Meals so that children receive nutritious and safe food.
Reviewing the School Health Programme, the Commission examined measures related to health screening, growth monitoring, and hygiene practices among students.
Sharma highlighted the importance of early detection of malnutrition and called for coordinated efforts by the Health, Education, and Food & Civil Supplies Departments to address nutritional deficiencies among schoolchildren.
The meeting further evaluated awareness campaigns being conducted under the NFSA, 2013. Discussions focused on public awareness regarding entitlements under the Public Distribution System (PDS), grievance redressal mechanisms, and food safety standards.
The Chairman directed district-level officials to intensify Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities through local media, schools, Anganwadi centres, Panchayati Raj Institutions, and self-help groups to ensure beneficiaries are aware of their rights.
In a move to encourage better implementation, Sharma announced that the top three schools and Anganwadi centres demonstrating exemplary work in these areas would be recognized at the state level. He also called for monthly review meetings at the district level to monitor progress.
Reiterating that food security is closely linked to human dignity, the Chairman urged all stakeholders to adopt a proactive approach and strengthen transparency, accountability, and inter-departmental coordination to ensure that no child or household is deprived of access to adequate and nutritious food.
Commission Members Vijay Dutt and Jasvir Singh Sekhon, along with Member Secretary Kanu Thind, were among those present at the meeting.