oD & FSSAI sign MoU to promote use of millets & healthy eating practices among Armed Forces & ensure safe and nutritious food
New Delhi, July 13, 2023 – The Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have joined forces to encourage the use of millets and promote healthy eating practices among the armed forces. In a significant development, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today in the presence of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya.
The MoU, signed by Lt. Gen. Preet Mohindera Singh, Director General (Supplies and Transport) on behalf of the MoD, and Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of FSSAI, aims to raise awareness about the nutritional benefits of incorporating millet-based food products into the armed forces’ diet. As part of the collaboration, millet-based menus will be introduced in mess, canteens, and other food outlets under the MoD.
Moreover, the partnership includes comprehensive training programs for food handlers and chefs working in the mess, canteens, and other food outlets associated with the Armed Forces. These initiatives will focus on food safety and hygiene, aligning with the regulations outlined in the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006. The shared commitment between MoD and FSSAI is aimed at ensuring the health and well-being of the Armed Forces, enabling them to remain resilient in their service to the nation.
This collaborative effort also extends to the families of the Armed Forces and the wider community, with an emphasis on encouraging nutritious diets, making healthy food choices, and maintaining food safety practices. By promoting the consumption of millets and highlighting their health benefits, the MoD and FSSAI aspire to foster a culture of wellness and dietary diversity among the Armed Forces personnel and their families.
To support this initiative, FSSAI has developed a comprehensive recipe book titled ‘Healthy Recipes for Defence,’ consisting of a variety of millet-based dishes. This valuable resource will be made available to canteens and food outlets operating under the MoD. Given the diverse terrains and challenging climatic conditions often encountered by defence personnel, the inclusion of diverse dietary options assumes great importance. Millets, known for their nutritional value, can contribute significantly to a well-balanced diet.
The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of Chief of Defence Staff & Secretary, Dept of Military Affairs General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, Union Health Secretary Shri Rajesh Bhushan, CEO of FSSAI Shri G Kamala Vardhana Rao, and several other senior officials from the MoD and MoHFW. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in promoting the well-being and nutritional health of the Armed Forces, ensuring they are equipped to serve the nation with strength and vitality.
