Telangana CM Issues Stringent Directives to Prevent Food Poisoning in Educational Institutions
In a decisive move to safeguard student health, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has issued comprehensive instructions to district collectors aimed at preventing the recurrence of food poisoning incidents across residential schools, hostels, and government educational institutions. The announcement was made during a high-level review meeting held on Tuesday, where the CM emphasized that negligence in school administration will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Mid-Day Meal Quality Assurance Protocol
The government is implementing a rigorous monitoring system for the mid-day meal program, which serves thousands of students daily across the state's 26,000 government schools. CM Revanth Reddy mandated that a specific officer be assigned responsibility for meal quality in each school. This designated official is required to have lunch alongside the students to personally verify the food standards.
Furthermore, district collectors have been instructed to participate in mid-day meals at government schools at least once per week. They must subsequently submit detailed reports to the government regarding their observations and any necessary improvements. "This hands-on approach ensures accountability and immediate feedback," the CM stated during the address.
Comprehensive Safety and Health Initiatives
The Chief Minister outlined multiple additional measures spanning various departments:
- Transport Safety: The transport department must conduct thorough fitness tests for all school buses and other vehicles. Eye tests are now mandatory for RTC bus drivers, as well as drivers of lorries and goods transport vehicles.
- Road Infrastructure: A dedicated WhatsApp number will be established for citizens to report large potholes and accident-prone spots on roads and highways, enabling prompt government repairs.
- Substance Abuse Prevention: Educational institution owners will be held directly accountable if marijuana, drugs, or e-cigarettes are found on their premises. Every private and corporate school must employ a psychologist alongside regular teaching staff.
- Agricultural Development: The agriculture department is tasked with educating farmers about the benefits of crop rotation, diversification, and solar-powered pump sets. District collectors must submit reports on crop diversification opportunities in their regions.
Healthcare Integration and Anti-Corruption Measures
CM Revanth Reddy highlighted significant investments in the health sector, revealing plans to integrate all government hospitals with medical colleges to enhance treatment accessibility for economically disadvantaged citizens. "Our goal is to provide superior medical care to the poor through strategic partnerships," he explained.
The CM also issued a stern warning against corruption, particularly targeting outsourcing agencies that create fraudulent employee records. He emphasized that district collectors and Superintendents of Police (SPs) will face suspension if they fail to take strict action against illegal sand mining operations and related mafia activities.
These directives form part of a broader governance overhaul aimed at improving public service delivery and ensuring citizen welfare across Telangana. The CM's proactive stance reflects a commitment to addressing systemic issues through direct administrative engagement and accountability mechanisms.
