By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, March 18: Health & Family Welfare Additional Chief Secretary Sampath Kumar has highlighted the critical role of Food Safety Officers (FSOs) in safeguarding public health through the effective enforcement of safety regulations.
Addressing the inaugural session of a 14-day induction training programme at the Meghalaya Administrative Training Institute (MATI) on Monday, Kumar stated that the first 1,000 days of a child’s life are vital. He noted that many adult health complications stem from poor nutrition and unsafe food practices during early childhood, and urged officers to perform their duties with integrity to build a healthier society.
FSSAI Joint Director (Vigilance) Dr Sanjay Kumar described FSOs as “soldiers” on the frontlines of food safety, tasked with protecting citizens by ensuring adherence to the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
The training, organised by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), brought together officers from Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Meghalaya, Manipur, and the Indian Railways. The programme covers inspection protocols, food sampling, surveillance mechanisms and enforcement responsibilities under the national framework.
The inaugural session was also attended by Commissioner of Food Safety Dr Joram Beda, MATI Joint Director Dr T SR Marak, and FSSAI Training Coordinator Dr Vandna, among others.
