Lucknow, September 29 (TNA) Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya urged people to adopt healthy eating habits and make millets, or Shri Anna, a regular part of their diet while avoiding oily and packaged food.
Addressing the ‘Eat Right Summit’ held at Hotel Clarks Awadh in Lucknow, Maurya said, “As you eat, so shall your mind become” (Jaisa khao ann, vaisa bane man). He stressed that a healthy society could not be built through government efforts alone and that every family must understand its responsibility.
The summit was organised under the Eat Right India movement of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), under the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The initiative focuses on safe, healthy and sustainable food practices.
Focus on Healthy Choices
Speaking as the chief guest, Maurya said, “Good health does not begin in hospitals; it begins in our kitchens, on our plates and with the choices we make every day.” He appealed to people to include balanced meals and millets in their daily diet. He also advised them to avoid excessive consumption of oily food, packaged products, and items containing high levels of sugar and salt.
“People should reduce the direct consumption of sugar and salt and remain aware of the impact of their dietary choices,” he said.
Concern Over Childhood Obesity
The Deputy Chief Minister expressed concern over the increasing problem of obesity among children. He urged parents to remain vigilant and encourage their children to follow a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.
Maurya said parents should lead by example and educate children about nutritious food, regular physical activity and the harmful effects of excessive consumption of packaged and oily food.
During the programme, he interacted warmly with children, posed for photographs with them and wished them a healthy and bright future. Assistant Commissioner (Food Safety) Vijay Pratap Singh, former Additional Chief Secretary Dr Anita Bhatnagar Jain, former NSDC Chief Executive Officer Jayant Krishna and former Additional Chief Secretary Dr Anees Ansari were among those present at the summit, along with several administrative officials and health experts.
FSSAI’s Eat Right India movement is based on the principles of eating safe, eating healthy and eating sustainably, to promote healthier food choices among consumers and transform the country’s food ecosystem.