Synopsis
Rajasthan has been recognized for its premier role in tackling food adulteration, with significant actions taken by the government to ensure the safety of consumables. The state is enhancing its testing capacities and workforce to combat this issue effectively.Key Takeaways
- Rajasthan ranks first in the nation for combating food adulteration.
- Over 1,300 inspections and 3,300 samples collected.
- 284% more samples than required by FSSAI.
- 11 operational food testing labs with new ones being established.
- Recruitment for 300 additional food safety officers is ongoing.
Jaipur, March 20 (NationPress) Rajasthan Medical and Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar announced on Thursday that the state is at the forefront in the nation regarding actions against food adulteration.
Emphasizing the state government's dedication to eliminating food adulteration in fruits, vegetables, and other consumables, he mentioned that the department executed 1,340 food inspections and obtained 3,363 samples, including those from well-known companies, between March 3 and March 12, 2025.
Numerous FIRs have been filed against sellers found guilty of adulteration.
In response to an attention motion raised by MLA Bhagchand Tankada in the Legislative Assembly, Khimsar revealed that the state has collected 284 percent more samples than the amount required under the Food Safety Act by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The department has been undertaking surprise inspections and enforcing strict penalties against violators.
Currently, there are 11 food testing laboratories operational in Alwar, Bharatpur, Kota, Bikaner, Ajmer, Udaipur, Banswara, Jalore, Churu, Jaipur, and Jodhpur.
Additionally, seven new labs are being established in Sikar, Nagaur, Barmer, Dholpur, Sriganganagar, Bhilwara, and Baran that will soon be operational.
Furthermore, the 2025-26 Budget includes plans for setting up new labs in Hanumangarh, Sawai Madhopur, Jaisalmer, Pali, Sirohi, Chittorgarh, and Dungarpur to improve food safety measures.
The minister also emphasized the urgent necessity to bolster the workforce for enforcing food safety.
Currently, 97 food safety officers are in place, and a recruitment initiative for 300 additional officers is ongoing to enhance inspections and ensure compliance.
Khimsar called on municipal authorities to take decisive action against individuals growing vegetables and fruits using contaminated water.
He further urged food vendors to practice ethical methods and not jeopardize public health for financial profit. With rigorous enforcement actions, expanded testing capabilities, and increased personnel, the Rajasthan government aims to prioritize food safety, ensuring the health and well-being of its citizens, he concluded.
