KHARAR, July 12 — A surprise inspection by Punjab State Food Commission member Vijay Dutt uncovered major lapses in hygiene and safety standards during the preparation and distribution of mid-day meals in several government schools and anganwadi centres in the Kharar area, including Naya Shehar Badala and Badali village.
Cooking staff at multiple sites were found working without basic hygiene gear—head caps, aprons, and gloves were absent—and overall sanitation protocols were being ignored. “This is a serious matter. Food served to children must meet basic hygiene standards. Immediate corrective action is necessary,” Dutt said, issuing strict directives on the spot.
The inspection was part of a broader review of National Food Security Act (NFSA) schemes in the region. Dutt directed that all cooking and serving personnel must wear proper uniforms, undergo regular health check-ups, and adhere to sanitation norms. He also emphasized that food testing registers must be properly maintained and that meals should be both nutritious and clean.
Another issue flagged during the inspection was the substandard quality of drinking water. Dutt noted that Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels were found to be irregular in several schools and instructed authorities to begin routine water testing to ensure safe drinking water for all students.
Dutt also sat down with students during lunchtime to sample the food and gather direct feedback on its quality and taste.
“Transparency, hygiene, and accountability must be the backbone of the mid-day meal system,” he said.
In addition, he took note of the absence of the Commission’s complaint and helpline number in all the visited centres.
“The NFSA helpline number 9876764545 must be clearly displayed in every school and anganwadi centre,” Dutt directed. He assured that any beneficiary facing issues could lodge a grievance via this number and receive timely redressal.
Warning of strict consequences for continued lapses, Dutt stated, “Negligence in matters of children’s health and nutrition will not be tolerated. Repeated violations will invite strong disciplinary action.”
