First-Ever Nutrition Policy: In a significant step toward improving public health and nutritional outcomes, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday chaired a high-level meeting of the Health Department, where a comprehensive roadmap was discussed to ensure better health and nutrition for people across the state.
For the first time since its formation, Himachal Pradesh will formulate a dedicated Nutrition Policy, aimed at delivering inclusive and long-term nutritional benefits to all sections of society. The move reflects the state government’s growing emphasis on preventive healthcare and food quality.
First-Ever Nutrition Policy for Himachal Pradesh
During the meeting, the Chief Minister underlined the need for a structured and data-driven approach to nutrition. The proposed policy will focus on addressing malnutrition, improving dietary quality, and ensuring balanced nutrition for children, women, and vulnerable communities.
Officials said the policy will be designed to complement existing welfare schemes while introducing modern nutritional standards tailored to regional needs.
Strengthening Key Welfare Schemes Through Nutrition Profiling
ICDS, Mid-Day Meal, and PDS Under Review
A major highlight of the meeting was the emphasis on nutrition profiling across flagship schemes such as:
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme
- Public Distribution System (PDS)
Nutrition profiling will help assess the nutritional value, calorie content, and food quality of meals provided under these schemes. Special attention will be given to food fortification, ensuring essential micronutrients are included to tackle deficiencies effectively.
Officials believe this approach will improve transparency, accountability, and awareness about what people consume through government-supported programs.
Boost to Food Testing Infrastructure in the State
Kandaghati Lab to Be Upgraded, New Lab in Kangra
To strengthen food safety mechanisms, the state government has decided to upgrade the Composite Food Testing Laboratory at Kandaghati. Additionally, a new food testing laboratory will be established in Kangra district in the first phase.
The Chief Minister also announced plans to set up regional food testing laboratories in other parts of the state in the coming years. These facilities will play a crucial role in monitoring food quality, preventing adulteration, and ensuring compliance with nutritional standards.
A Strong Step Toward ‘Healthy Himachal’
Chief Minister Sukhu described the initiatives as a decisive move toward building a “Healthy Himachal”, stating that nutrition and food safety are foundational to sustainable development.
Health Department officials were directed to ensure time-bound implementation and inter-departmental coordination so that policy decisions translate into visible outcomes on the ground.