During a conference on the theme of ‘Agriculture, Nutrition and Wellness Synergy’ held at the 19th Punjab International Trade Expo in Amritsar, B.M. Sharma, Chairman of the Punjab State Food Commission, made a major announcement. He stated that the Punjab government is going to establish nutrition gardens in 5,073 schools across the state. Orders for this have already been issued.
Sharma said that while there is no shortage of food grains in Punjab, providing quality food to the people remains a challenge. With this objective in mind, gardens of fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants are being developed in schools where vacant land is available.
Fruits and Vegetables to be Included in Mid-Day Meals
Sharma explained that the vegetables and fruits grown in these nutrition gardens will be included in the children’s mid-day meals, ensuring that students receive nutritious and fresh food from an early age. He further added that many schools in the state have 3 to 4 acres of surplus land.
1100 Anganwadi Centers Also Selected
The Agriculture Department, Horticulture Department, and Education Department are collaborating to develop these gardens on this land. He also informed that nutrition gardens will be developed in 1,100 Anganwadi centers where additional land is available.
Emphasis on 20% Taste, 80% Nutrition
During the program, Supreet Singh, Coordinator of the Pharmaceutical, Health and Wellness Committee of PHDCCI, said that in today’s changing lifestyle, the food ratio should be such that the plate contains 20 percent taste and 80 percent nutrition. Dr. Narpinder Singh, Vice-Chancellor of Graphic Era University, said that the objective of this program is to increase awareness among people about nutritious food.