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 identification details of the owner. Public Works Minister Vikramaditya Singh made the announcement following public concerns over food safety, especially street food. The move aims to provide transparency and accountability, ensuring people know exactly who is behind the food they are eating.
Public concerns on food hygiene, prompt action
Vikramaditya Singh during a meeting with representatives of Public Works, Urban Development and Municipal Corporation. Stressed on Importance of this measure. He said the decision has been taken following feedback from people concerned about the hygiene and safety of food sold on the streets. Singh said that by displaying their identity, shopkeepers and vendors will increase consumer confidence in the food they sell.
“We want to ensure that clean food is sold across the state, especially by street vendors and restaurants. “By making it mandatory for every shopkeeper to display his or her name and identity, we aim to address public concerns,” Singh said in a statement. The policy mirrors a similar initiative launched in Uttar Pradesh, which Has seen success in regulating food outlets.
Comparison of Himachal’s policy with Uttar Pradesh’s measures
While some have drawn parallels between Himachal Pradesh’s new policy and Uttar Pradesh’s rules, Congress MLA Rajiv Shukla insisted that it is not accurate to link the policies of the two states. Shukla highlighted that Himachal’s measures are aimed at ensuring that only authorized persons can operate food shops, independent of Uttar Pradesh’s broader food security initiatives.
In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had earlier ordered that names and addresses of owners and managers be displayed at food outlets, and that chefs and waitstaff wear masks and gloves. He also called for 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 safe food standards across the state. Singh’s focus remains on regulating street vendors, especially those selling food, to guarantee that the food being served is safe and meets hygiene standards. This decision is an important step towards better regulation and better public health in Himachal Pradesh.
