SRINAGAR: In order to ensure the availability of safe, hygienic and wholesome food to the public, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Food Safety Kashmir, Shagoofa Jalal today took a detailed review of the implementation of Food Safety & Standards Act in Kashmir Division. During the meeting, the DC reviewed different activities carried out by the Enforcement Officers.

It was informed that with effect from April to October 2024, 7419 inspections were conducted and a total number of 6930 samples of different categories of food items were lifted for testing of quality and safety parameters of food articles prescribed under the provisions of Food Safety & standards Act.

The meeting was also informed that 5478 samples were analyzed during the same period and 1620 prosecutions against the violators of the Act have been launched by the enforcement officers in various courts, and an amount of Rs.10,28,900 has been imposed as fine on various  food  Business Operators contravening the provisions of FSSAI Act.

Besides, 1136 cases were compounded on spot under section 69 of the Act, by the Designated Officers and a fine of Rs 1299500 was realized. Further 14725 License/registration were issued under section 31 of the Act, during the said period and 98 awareness programs were organized. Mobile Food Testing Vans (Food Safety on Wheels) were deployed and 5509 samples were analyzed on spot to instill confidence amongst consumers that food is safe to eat.

The Enforcement Officers of the Kashmir division were directed to issue improvement notices against food business operators who do not adhere to the provisions of the Act and conduct regular awareness programmes. Food Business operators were directed to stop use of food colours in ready to serve Food particularly in Wazawan and Pickle. Also stop using newspapers for packing, serving and storing food items.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). ā€œHis article, ā€˜When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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