Himachal Pradesh Announces Comprehensive State Nutrition Policy
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu made a significant announcement on Wednesday. The Himachal Pradesh government will soon formulate a state nutrition policy. This policy aims to ensure access to balanced and nutritious food for vulnerable groups across the state.
Focus on Children, Adolescent Girls, and Mothers
The policy specifically targets children, adolescent girls, and expectant and lactating mothers. These groups often face nutritional challenges. The government wants to address these issues directly through structured interventions.
Upgrading Food Testing Infrastructure
A key component of this initiative involves upgrading the composite testing laboratory at Kandaghat in Solan district. The facility will receive world-class technology. This upgrade will enable precise and efficient food analysis, ensuring higher standards of safety.
Expanding Regional Laboratories
The government has outlined a phased plan for expansion. Regional laboratories will first be established in Baddi, Mandi, Kangra, and Shimla. Following this initial phase, similar facilities will be set up in all districts of Himachal Pradesh. This network will strengthen nutritional surveillance throughout the state.
Profiling and Mapping Nutritional Content
Chief Minister Sukhu emphasised the need for robust nutritional surveillance. Officials will profile and map the nutritional content of various food items. This data will help in making informed decisions about food distribution and safety measures.
Regular Testing for Government Schemes
Regular food testing will be conducted for items distributed under key government schemes. These include the public distribution system, Anganwadi services, and the mid-day meal scheme. Ensuring the quality of food in these programs is a top priority for the administration.
Mobile Testing Vans for Outreach
Mobile testing vans will also be deployed across the state. These vans will serve multiple purposes. They will raise awareness about nutrition, build capacity among local communities, and expand departmental outreach to remote areas.
Digitisation of Processes
Sukhu directed the complete digitisation of related processes. A state portal will be created for tracking food samples and test results. Additionally, a state nutrition database will be developed to consolidate all relevant information in one place.
Addressing Nutritional Deficiencies and Contamination
The Chief Minister highlighted concerns over nutritional deficiencies and pesticide contamination. These factors contribute to rising diseases in the population. To combat this, the government is promoting natural farming practices. Various schemes are also in place to support farmers in adopting sustainable methods.
Upgrading Healthcare Infrastructure
Alongside nutrition efforts, the state is upgrading its healthcare system. World-class standards will be introduced in medical education. Intensive care units (ICUs) will be established in all medical colleges. The government aims to maintain a global-standard doctor-patient ratio to improve overall health outcomes.
This comprehensive approach reflects the government's commitment to enhancing public health and nutrition across Himachal Pradesh.
