In a significant move to enhance food safety and pilgrim amenities at prominent religious destinations, the Central Government has approved the development of Food Street Hubs in Shegaon (Vidarbha) and Shirdi (Marathwada region) under its national food safety initiative.
Project Details and Funding
The project, jointly implemented by the Union Health Ministry and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), will be rolled out across 100 locations nationwide. As part of this initiative, both Shegaon and Shirdi will receive funding of Rs 1 crore each.
Objectives of the Food Street Hubs
The Food Street Hubs aim to provide clean, hygienic, and nutritious food to devotees while ensuring that food handling and preparation meet standardized safety norms. The initiative is particularly focused on curbing foodborne illnesses and improving the overall quality of street food services in high-footfall areas.
Significance for Shegaon and Shirdi
Shegaon, widely known as a major spiritual centre associated with Sant Gajanan Maharaj, will see the development of a modern and well-regulated food street designed to cater to thousands of daily visitors. A similar facility will be established in Shirdi, one of the country's most visited pilgrimage sites associated with Sai Baba.
Economic and Social Impact
Officials said that the project will not only enhance food safety standards but also generate employment opportunities for local vendors and small-scale food business operators by integrating them into a structured and monitored ecosystem. This integration will ensure that street food vendors operate under hygienic conditions, benefiting both pilgrims and local economies.
Government Response
Union Minister of State for AYUSH, Health and Family Welfare, Prataprao Jadhav, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for approving the proposal. He stated that the initiative would significantly improve the experience of lakhs of devotees visiting both religious destinations while ensuring access to safe and nutritious food. The minister emphasized that the project aligns with the government's commitment to public health and pilgrim welfare.
With the establishment of these Food Street Hubs, Shegaon and Shirdi are set to become models for food safety in pilgrimage sites across India, setting a benchmark for other locations to follow.
