Punjab State Food Commission directs fast-track rollout of 'Poshan Gardens' in Schools and Anganwadi Centres
Babushahi Bureau
Bathinda ([Punjab), June 30, 2026: Chairman of the Punjab State Food Commission, Bal Mukand Sharma, on Tuesday directed officials to expedite the implementation of the ‘Poshan Gardens’ initiative in all government primary schools and Anganwadi centres across Bathinda district to strengthen child nutrition.
The directions were issued during a review meeting with officials from various departments at the District Administrative Complex in Bathinda.
Sharma instructed authorities to establish Poshan Gardens with seasonal vegetables, fruit-bearing plants and medicinal herbs so that fresh and nutritious produce can be used in Mid-Day Meals and supplementary nutrition provided through Anganwadi centres.
He said the initiative would help improve children’s nutritional intake while also encouraging awareness about agriculture and environmental conservation.
“The Poshan Gardens will provide children with a balanced diet and play an important role in combating malnutrition, contributing to a healthier Punjab,” Sharma said, reaffirming the Punjab Government’s commitment under the leadership of Bhagwant Mann to improving child health and nutrition.
The Chairman also reviewed the quality of Mid-Day Meals and supplementary nutrition being served in schools and Anganwadi centres.
He directed the Education Department and the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development to work in coordination with the Health, Agriculture, Horticulture and Forestry departments to ensure the effective implementation of the Poshan Gardens initiative.
Sharma also instructed the Health Department to conduct regular medical examinations of cooks and other staff involved in preparing Mid-Day Meals in government schools, stressing the need for inter-departmental coordination to ensure the success of the programme.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Urban Development) Gurpreet Singh Thind, Assistant Commissioner (General) Gurjinder Singh and senior officials from various departments.