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New Delhi – In a significant stride towards enhancing food safety and public health, Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, the Hon’ble Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, recently unveiled several innovative initiatives aimed at improving food import processes and strengthening international cooperation in food safety.
Among the key initiatives is the Food Import Clearance System 2.0 (FICS 2.0), which promises a more user-friendly and transparent online solution for food import clearance procedures. This system is designed to streamline the process, ensuring that food safety authorities can efficiently manage food imports while maintaining high standards of public health. Complementing this is the Food Import Rejection Alerts (FIRA) portal, an online platform that notifies relevant authorities and the public about food import rejections at Indian borders. This initiative enhances traceability and transparency, allowing for rapid dissemination of information regarding food safety risks.
In a move to bolster international collaboration, an agreement was signed between the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA) on March 21, 2024. This agreement recognizes the official control exercised by the BFDA on food business operators as equivalent to FSSAI’s requirements for food exports to India. Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding was established between FSSAI and the Brazilian Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock to enhance cooperation in food safety.
The 47th Session of the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC47), held from November 25 to 30, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland, saw India’s proposal for a group standard of whole millet grains approved with overwhelming support from member countries. This session also featured the adoption of several standards and new work proposals, further solidifying India’s role in global food safety discussions.
To enhance the capabilities of food safety officials, a three-day workshop organized by the Codex Contact Point (CCP) took place from April 5 to 7, 2024, followed by a mock drill session on April 12, 2024. This program aimed to deepen the understanding of Codex procedures among FSSAI officers, thereby strengthening India’s engagement with the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
These initiatives reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring food safety and public health, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries and improved health outcomes for citizens. As the nation continues to navigate the complexities of food safety and health regulations, these efforts are crucial in fostering a safer and healthier environment for all.
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