SUBHASH MISHRA
Dhanbad, Nov 24: The Dhanbad District Food Safety Department (FSD) has launched its first-ever special training programme for street food vendors, aiming to promote the safe serving and sale of hygienic food.
Over 200 vendors participated in the two-day initiative, where they were briefed on the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA) and related regulations to ensure food safety and cleanliness.
Participants received training certificates along with hygiene kits, marking the first time such an initiative has been undertaken in Dhanbad to promote awareness and safer food practices among vendors.
Also Read- Justice Surya Kant takes oath as 53rd Chief Justice of India
Programme Aims to Build Trust and Improve Food Standards
Food Safety Officer (FSO) Raja Kumar said the primary goal of the programme was to encourage vendors to adopt hygienic practices while serving food.
The training covered vital aspects such as livelihood support, improving food quality, strengthening customer trust, preventing food-borne diseases, and enhancing vendors’ understanding of safety regulations.
Along with the training, vendors were provided free hygiene kits—including aprons, gloves, caps, soap, towels, dusters, and headgear—along with certification from Nestlé and NASVI, and a booklet of key safety guidelines.
Mandatory Compliance Emphasised for Vendors
Kumar stressed that such initiatives are essential not only for safeguarding public health but also for improving the long-term sustainability of street vendors’ livelihoods.
He added that the training was conducted in an interactive format to ensure better understanding and that adherence to the practices taught will now be mandatory to build a culture of clean and safe food in society.
Also Read- Clear sky, cooler nights to prevail over Jharkhand
Seven Essential Practices Introduced
Trainer Vishal Anand highlighted seven key practices during the session: personal hygiene, stall and cart cleanliness, proper food storage and temperature control, safe food handling, utensil and equipment sanitation, access to clean drinking water, and pest control.
He also explained provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, the 2011 regulations, and Schedule 4 requirements applicable to street food businesses.
Bhagwan Das Sharma from the National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI) attended the programme and played a key role in its successful execution.
