Eat Right – Stay Healthy: Massive Awareness Drive Launched in Telangana

The Telangana government has intensified its crackdown on food adulteration , signalling a firm commitment to public health and safety. Launching the ‘Eat Right – Stay Healthy’ campaign, Health Minister Damodar Rajanarasimha made it clear that there will be zero tolerance toward practices that compromise food quality. The initiative began with a vibrant walkathon from Jalavihar to the HMDA Grounds , where nearly 1,000 students and youth participated, reflecting rising awareness about safe eating habits in an increasingly urbanised society.

Highlighting the impact of urbanisation and changing lifestyles, the minister noted that growing dependence on processed food and outside meals is contributing to a surge in health issues. Adulteration in essentials such as cooking oil, sugar, and pulses is leading to digestive disorders and chronic illnesses like diabetes , hypertension , heart disease, and kidney problems. With around 1.41 lakh food establishments in the state most of them concentrated in cities the risk is particularly high in urban areas like Hyderabad. He also warned against the use of low-quality edible oils, calling them a serious threat to long-term health.

Under the direction of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy , the government has adopted a strict enforcement approach, conducting over 11,000 inspections in the past two years and taking action against violators. To strengthen monitoring, authorities have appointed 24 new food inspectors and deployed mobile testing laboratories for on-the-spot checks. Plans are also underway to establish regional testing facilities in key districts, ensuring wider coverage and faster response to violations.

Emphasising that ensuring safe food is a shared responsibility, the minister called on producers, regulators, and consumers to work together in maintaining quality standards. He reiterated that adopting healthier dietary choices is essential for long-term well-being and urged citizens to embrace the campaign’s message of eating right to stay healthy. Senior officials, including Health Principal Secretary Christina Z. Chongthu, Food Safety Commissioner Sangeeta Satyanarayana, and Hyderabad Collector Harichandana, also attended the event, reinforcing the state’s commitment to building a healthier Telangana.