In a significant step towards promoting safe and healthy eating habits, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, inaugurated India's first Healthy & Hygienic Food Street, 'PRASADAM,' at Neelkanth Van, Mahakal Lok, in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. The event saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Dr. Mohan Yadav, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, Rajendra Shukla, Deputy Chief Minister, Narendra Shivaji Patel, Minister of State for Public Health and Family Welfare, and Anil Firojiya, Member of Lok Sabha.
Under the National Health Mission, several projects were inaugurated as part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen the healthcare infrastructure.
A Vision for Healthy India
Dr. Mandaviya, echoing the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasized the importance of citizens' health in achieving a developed nation. He emphasized that, in addition to substantive health infrastructure, healthy and hygienic food constitutes a vital component for the well-being of citizens. The minister unveiled the official website for the Healthy & Hygienic Food Street initiative and released a brochure outlining the Standard Operating Procedure for Healthy & Hygienic Food Streets.
Infrastructure Boost
In addition to the Food Street inauguration, Dr. Mandaviya and Dr. Yadav jointly inaugurated 17 civil works, including Public Health Unit blocks, Chief Minister Sanjeevni Health Clinics, Integrated Public Health Labs, and Emergency Covid response facilities. The Mannhit app, facilitating mental health screening, was also launched.
Promoting Food Safety and Awareness
To combat food adulteration, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) released ‘The DART Book,’ providing simple tests for consumers to check common food adulterations at home. Additionally, a mobile food testing van named Food Safety on Wheels (FSW) was introduced to reach remote areas, conducting training and awareness activities.
PRASADAM - More Than Just Food
Spread over 939 square meters, 'PRASADAM' houses 17 shops and offers a culturally rich dining experience to the 1-1.5 lakh devotees who visit the Mahakaleshwar Temple daily. The food street includes facilities like a kids' play area, drinking water facility, CCTV surveillance, parking, public conveniences, and seating spaces. It not only enhances Ujjain's tourism appeal and preserves its culinary traditions but also contributes to economic growth and community engagement.
Dr. Yadav praised the initiative, highlighting its potential to provide healthy and clean food engagingly, ultimately contributing to a healthier nation. The event was attended by various Members of Parliament, senior government officials, and eminent dignitaries, showcasing broad support for this transformative initiative.
