In an effort to improve food hygiene and safety, the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a new directive requiring restaurants, fast food outlets, and street vendors to prominently display the owner’s identification details. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh made the announcement following public concerns over food safety, especially regarding street food. This move aims to provide transparency and accountability, ensuring that people know exactly who is behind the food they are consuming.
Public Concerns Over Food Hygiene Prompt Action
During a meeting with representatives from the Public Works, Urban Development, and Municipal Corporation, Vikramaditya Singh emphasized the importance of this measure. He noted that the decision followed feedback from people worried about the cleanliness and safety of food sold on the streets. Singh explained that by displaying their identification, shopkeepers and vendors would increase consumer confidence in the food they sell.
“We want to ensure that hygienic food is sold across the state, particularly by street vendors and restaurants. By mandating that every shopkeeper display their name and identification, we aim to address the public’s concerns,” Singh said in a statement. The policy mirrors a similar initiative introduced in Uttar Pradesh, which has seen success in regulating food outlets.
Himachal’s Policy Compared to Uttar Pradesh’s Measures
While some have drawn parallels between Himachal Pradesh’s new policy and Uttar Pradesh’s regulations, Congress MLA Rajeev Shukla insisted that linking the two states’ policies isn’t accurate. Shukla highlighted that Himachal’s measures are intended to ensure that only authorized individuals can operate food outlets, independent of Uttar Pradesh’s broader food safety initiatives.
In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had earlier mandated that food outlets display the names and addresses of owners and managers, and that chefs and waitstaff wear masks and gloves. He also called for the installation of CCTV cameras in hotels and restaurants to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
Enhanced Food Safety Measures in Himachal Pradesh
The new order has been well-received by the public, with many believing it will help ensure safer food standards across the state. Singh’s focus remains on regulating street vendors, particularly those selling food, to guarantee that the food being served is safe and meets hygiene standards. The decision marks a significant step towards better regulation and improved public health in Himachal Pradesh.
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