The Dr. YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni recently hosted a World Food Day event that emphasized the urgent need for everyone to have access to affordable, nutritious food. Experts at the event highlighted the concerning trend of nutritious food being limited to the privileged few. Organized by the Department of Food Science and Technology in collaboration with various organizations, the event featured keynote addresses by University Vice Chancellor Prof. Rajeshwar Singh Chandel and Padma Shri awardee Nek Ram Sharma.
Prof. Chandel expressed concern over the decline in millet cultivation and the increasing reliance on wheat and rice. He emphasized that the shift towards high-input intensive crops often results in lower nutritional value. He called for greater efforts to develop millet-based products to promote their consumption and address health concerns associated with unhealthy eating habits.
Nek Ram Sharma advocated for a return to traditional food practices and highlighted the importance of growing appropriate crops for different seasons. He encouraged the youth, especially agricultural graduates, to learn more about millets and promote their cultivation and consumption.
Dr. Rakesh Sharma, Head of the Department of Food Science, welcomed participants and provided context for World Food Day, which is celebrated annually on October 16. This year's theme, "Right to Food for a Better Life and a Better Future," underscores the ongoing challenge of food insecurity, which affects millions of people worldwide.
The department also showcased three new carbonated apple juice drinks as healthier alternatives to traditional soft drinks. The event included an "Eat Right Rally," slogan writing competition, and poster-making competition.
The celebration was attended by university officials, faculty, staff, students, and farmers, who contributed to a productive discussion on the future of food.
