Page 61 - MANN KI BAAT- ENGLISH

challenges in implementing issued by the National Institute
health-centric educational of Nutrition. Nutritionists and
tools like 'Sugar Boards.' These
dietitians may be engaged by
include addressing behavioral
the school authorities to assist
resistance, overcoming
in the preparation of menus for
difficulties in changing
the children, periodically. School
established dietary habits, and
educating both students and canteens should not serve
parents about healthier choices. junk food laden with excessive
Making safe, nutritious food calories and sodium. They
options appealing to children should follow the guidelines of
is another significant hurdle,
FSSAI to limit the sale of foods
especially when it comes to the
high in fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS)
availability of healthy snacks
within school premises.
and meals in school canteens
The Sugar Board initiative
and at home. Continued follow-
up through initiatives such as by the National Commission
parent-teacher meetings could for Protection of Child Rights
play a crucial role in reinforcing (NCPCR) is a commendable
these efforts and ensuring long- first step toward reducing
term impact.
health risks among children in
For mitigating these
India. Nationwide adoption and
challenges, it is important
implementation of this initiative
that school authorities should
can have a far-reaching impact
promote consumption of a
‘safe and balanced diet’ in the and significantly contribute to
schools as per the guidelines ‘Fit India’ movement.

61 61