SANJY- 2025 : Food Safety Dept reviews availability of safe, hygienic food for pilgrims

Baltal, July 01: The Food Safety Department on Tuesday convened a high level meeting with members of the Shri Amarnath Yatra Bhandara Organisation (SAYBO) at the Baltal base camp to ensure the availability of safe and hygienic food for pilgrims undertaking the Shri Amarnath Yatra, The meeting was held under the chairmanship of Sanjeev Gupta, Joint Commissioner, Food Safety Kashmir. The primary focus was on the implementation of the Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act, 2006, particularly in matters of hygiene and sanitation at community kitchens (langars) set up along the Yatra route.During the meeting, Gupta emphasised the importance of serving wholesome and safe food to the yatris and directed all stakeholders to ensure that their langars are registered under the FSS Act-2006. He also instructed the concerned Food Safety Officer to organize a registration mela to facilitate the registration process for langar operators.A threadbare discussion was held on various aspects of food safety, including cleanliness, food handling practices, and waste disposal. The officials stressed strict adherence to food safety norms to prevent any health hazards during the pilgrimage.Among those present in the meeting were. Gh. Qadir Azhar, Deputy Commissioner, Food Safety Kashmir; Technical Officer from the department; the Designated Officer for Food Safety Ganderbal; and the Food Safety Officer concerned.The department reiterated its commitment to ensuring high standards of food safety throughout the duration of the yatra and sought full cooperation from SAYBO and other stakeholders.