MILK ADULTERATION

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:48PM by PIB Delhi

The Government of India enacted Food Safety and Standards (FSS) Act- 2006 to unify food related laws and establish the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). The FSSAI sets science-based standards for food articles and regulates their manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and import to ensure availability of safe and wholesome food for human consumption.  The implementation and enforcement of FSS Act are carried out by FSSAI through Food Safety Commissioners of State Governments and Union Territory Administrations. FSSAI, via its regional offices for centrally regulated food businesses and in collaboration with States/UTs, conducts regular monitoring activities such as inspections, audits, surveillance, and random sampling to ensure compliance with the Act and its regulations. In FY 2023-24, FSSAI introduced the “National Annual Surveillance Plan”. Additionally, States /UTs conduct independent surveillance and enforcement measures tailored to their local needs, food trends, consumption patterns, and issues like adulteration. FSSAI also conducts periodic Pan-India Surveillance, focussing on staple foods and other commodities susceptible to adulteration.

According to FSSAI, Mobile Food Testing Laboratory (MFTL), also known as “Food Safety on wheels” (FSW), play a crucial role in expanding food testing, training, and awareness programs, particularly in villages, towns, and remote areas. At present, 285 FSWs are operational across 35 States and Union Territories. These Units are equipped with essential infrastructure, including “Milk-o-Screen” equipment, for on spot testing of key quality parameters viz., Fat, SNF, protein, and adulterants like added water, urea, sucrose, maltodextrin and ammonium sulphate. Additionally, FSWs are capable of performing basic adulteration tests for other food products as well.

Under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, Food Business Operators (FBOs) are primarily responsible for ensuring full traceability of food products, from raw material procurement to the delivery of finished goods to consumers. They must maintain proper records and documentation throughout the supply chain to uphold transparency, accountability, and safety. Compliance with these requirements is verified during inspections and audits, and appropriate regulatory action are taken in case of violations.

Additionally, the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying implements the national Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD), which focuses on establishing and enhancing infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment and primary chilling facilities.  The NPDD also provides financial support to cooperatives and milk producer institutions for purchasing Automatic Milk Collection Units (AMCU) and Data Processing Milk Collection Units (DPMCU), ensuring transparency in milk collection at the village level.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has established standards for milk and milk products under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011. These standards apply uniformly to all Food Business Operations (FBOs), including dairy cooperatives, across the country to ensure compliance. When developing new standards or amending existing ones, FSSAI releases draft notifications to solicit feedback and suggestions from the general public and stakeholders. The feedback received, including input from dairy cooperatives, is thoroughly reviewed and considered during the standard-setting process.

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

*****

AA

(Release ID: 2114718) Visitor Counter : 115

LIVESTOCK INSURANCE SCHEME

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:47PM by PIB Delhi

As per data received from the States and insurance companies a total of 21.01 lakh nos. of livestock have been insured in the current financial year.

The Livestock Insurance activity under the National Livestock Mission (NLM) scheme operates on a demand-driven basis. The Department is encouraging the States to send proposals of Livestock Insurance scheme so that more livestock may be covered.

The Department does not maintain any data on the number of people in the country who are dependent on livestock and animal husbandry for their livelihood. However, as per 19th Livestock Census, there are 10.08 crore households having livestock and/ or poultry.

To promote the Livestock Insurance activity among the farmers, the beneficiary share of premium for all categories and areas has been reduced to 15% instead of existing 20 – 50%; rest will be borne by Central as well as State Government in the ratio of 90:10 for Hilly and North-eastern states, 60:40 for states other than Hilly and North-eastern states and 100% for the UTs. Moreover, the Department is conducting extensive awareness like seminars and camps, publicity, video Conferences to promote the activity, for which the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is providing assistance to the State Governments to create awareness. 100% central assistance is provided to the States for awareness and publicity under the NLM scheme. Besides, during Regional Review Meetings, instructions are also given to the States for increasing insurance coverage. Additionally, the Department is developing a dedicated online portal to ensure transparent and efficient implementation of the livestock insurance program.

This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

*****

AA

(Release ID: 2114716) Visitor Counter : 109

GLOBAL DAIRY INDUSTRY

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:46PM by PIB Delhi

India is ranked 1st in milk production since 1998, nowcontributing 25 percent of global milk production. Milk production has increased by 63.56% over the past 10 years from 146.3 million tonnes during 2014-15 to 239.2 million tonnes during 2023-24, with an annual growth rate of 5.7 % during the past 10 years and whereas, world milk production is growing at 2% per annum. Per capita availability of milk in the country has increased by 48% in the last decade with more than 471 gm/person/day during the year 2023-24 as against the per capita availability of 322 gram/ person/ day in the world.

Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is implementing the following schemes across the country to complement and supplement the efforts for milk production and milk processing infrastructure made by the State Government;

  1. National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD): NPDD is implemented with following 2 components:
    1. Component ”A” of NPDD focuses on creating/strengthening of infrastructure for quality milk testing equipment as well as primary chilling facilities for State Cooperative Dairy Federations/ District Cooperative Milk Producers’ Union/ Self Help Groups (SHGs)/ Milk Producer Companies/ Farmer Producer Organizations.
    2. Component ‘B’ of the NPDD scheme “Dairying through Cooperatives” aims to increase sale of milk and dairy products by increasing farmer’s access to organized market, upgrading dairy processing facilities and marketing infrastructure and enhancing the capacity of producer owned institutions.
  2. Supporting Dairy Cooperatives & Farmer Producer Organisations engaged in dairy activities (SDCFPO): To assist the State Dairy Cooperative Federations by providing interest subvention with respect to working capital loan to tide over the crisis on account severely adverse market conditions or natural calamities.
  3. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF): AHIDF is being implemented for funding of eligible projects set up by individual entrepreneurs, Dairy Cooperatives, Farmers Producer Organizations, Private Companies, MSMEs and Section 8 companies for their investment for processing and value addition in animal husbandry sector by scheduled banks. Under the scheme, credit facilities are to be made available for establishment of Dairy processing & value addition infrastructure, Animal feed manufacturing plant, Breed Improvement Technology and Breed Multiplication farm, Animal waste to wealth management (Agri Waste management) and Veterinary vaccine and drugs production facilities.
  4. Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM): To enhance milk production and productivity of bovines Government is implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission for development and conservation of indigenous breeds and genetic upgradation of bovine population.
  5. National Livestock Mission (NLM): to bring sharp focus on entrepreneurship development and breed improvement in poultry, sheep, goat and piggery by providing the incentivization to the individual, FPOs, SHGs, Section 8 companies for entrepreneurship development and also to the State Government for breed improvement infrastructure.
  6. Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP): to provide for prophylactic vaccination against animal diseases, capacity building of veterinary services, disease surveillance, and strengthening veterinary infrastructure.

  Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying is continuously organizing social media campaigns through the official channels to make people aware about the nutritional benefits of milk. These campaigns include awareness posts, infographics, reels and engagement through hashtags and digital outreach.

  This information was given by Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, in a written reply in Lok Sabha on 25th March, 2025.

*****

AA

(Release ID: 2114715) Visitor Counter : 141

PM shares an article on India’s remarkable progress on fight against TB

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:36PM by PIB Delhi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi today shared an article by Union Minister Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda regarding key insights on the recently concluded 100-day Intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan which has set a strong foundation for a TB-free India.

The Prime Minister’s Office handle on X posted:

“India’s fight against TB is witnessing remarkable progress. The Union Health Minister, Shri @JPNadda shares key insights on the recently concluded 100-day Intensified TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan which has set a strong foundation for a TB-free India – A must read.”

 

 

***

MJPS/SR

(Release ID: 2114708) Visitor Counter : 229

Department of Consumer Affairs, GoI invites applications for filling up of two vacancies in National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission

Source: Government of India

Department of Consumer Affairs, GoI invites applications for filling up of two vacancies in National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission

Application invited only in online mode; last date of submission is 23rd April, 2025

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 12:33PM by PIB Delhi

The Department of Consumer Affairs under Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution has invited applications to fill up two anticipated vacancies for the post of Members in the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission, which is a quasi-judicial body established under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. The Commission is headquartered in New Delhi.

The Department of Consumer Affairs has invited application only through Online Mode.

The qualifications, eligibility, salary and other terms and conditions of the appointment of a candidate will be governed by the provisions of the Tribunal Reforms Act and the Tribunal (Conditions of Service) Rules, 2021.

The Search-Cum-Selection Committee constituted under the Tribunal Reforms Act 2021 for recommending names for appointment to the said post shall scrutinize the applications with respect to the suitability of application for the posts by giving due weightage to qualification and experience of candidates and shortlist candidates for conducting personal interaction. The final selection will be done on the basis of overall evaluation of candidates done by the Committee based on the qualification, experience and personal interaction.

The Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021, the Tribunals (conditions of service) Rules, 2021 and the Consumer Protection (Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions) Rules are also placed on the Ministry’s website “www.consumeraffairs.nic.in” for ready reference.

Applications of eligible and willing candidates are requested online through https://jagograhakjago.gov.in/ncdrc from 25.03.2025 onwards. The last date of receipt of applications is 23.04.2025. Wherever applicable, a copy of the application submitted online may be submitted through proper channel along-with prescribed documents to Under Secretary (CPU), Department of Consumer Affairs, Room No. 466-A, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi by 23rd April, 2025.

****

Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

(Release ID: 2114703) Visitor Counter : 240

Person in custody commits suicide by hanging at Hei Ling Chau Correctional Institution

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Person in custody commits suicide by hanging at Hei Ling Chau Correctional Institution 
At 4.59am today, a correctional officer found that the person in custody had committed suicide by hanging with towels tied to the grille bars of his cell. The officer immediately called for reinforcement to provide first-aid treatment, and a helicopter was summoned to send the person in custody to a public hospital for rescue. He was subsequently certified dead at 5.51am.
 
The Correctional Services Department has reported the case to the Police. A death inquest will be held by the Coroner’s Court.
 
The deceased was sentenced to imprisonment for the offence of trafficking in a dangerous drug in November 2016.
Issued at HKT 15:00

NNNN

Appeal for information on missing man in Tsuen Wan (with photo)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Appeal for information on missing man in Tsuen Wan (with photo)   
He is about 1.7 metres tall, 70 kilograms in weight and of thin build. He has a round face with yellow complexion and and short black hair. He was last seen wearing a green jacket, an orange top, dark-coloured trousers, black slippers and carrying a black rucksack and an orange recycle bag.Issued at HKT 14:56

NNNN

World-renowned artist Xu Bing’s signature work “Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” set to debut in Hong Kong (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

World-renowned artist Xu Bing’s signature work “Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” set to debut in Hong Kong  
     Xu Bing is internationally recognised as one of the most innovative and influential contemporary artists. Square Word Calligraphy is his created writing form that started in 1993 – English is written to resemble Chinese characters. This unique writing system highlights the diversity and integration of Eastern and Western cultures, aligning with the essence of Hong Kong’s East-meets-West characteristics. Transforming the exhibition space into an interactive classroom, the art installation “Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” created by Xu has been exhibited worldwide, guiding audiences from different cultural backgrounds to learn and write Square Words, enjoy the fun of traditional Chinese art, and expand creativity through switching between languages.
 
     “Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” is set to debut in Hong Kong. Xu has specially incorporated Hong Kong’s unique linguistic features, such as greetings and idioms, in the “Eying East, Wondering West – Square Word Calligraphy Classroom” exhibition at the HKMoA. This enriches the meaning and interpretation of Square Word Calligraphy, opening new avenues for cross-cultural and cross-language communication.
 
     The exhibition invites audiences to explore Square Word Calligraphy from three perspectives: appreciation, learning, and application. In addition to showcasing new Square Word Calligraphy works, the classroom at the HKMoA includes writing tools and copybooks for learning and attempting this special writing system. With digital technology, audiences can apply what they have learned by creating words with Square Word Calligraphy. The exhibition will run from March 26 to July 30 at The Wing (Lower), G/F, HKMoA, and will move to the Oil Street Art Space in North Point from September 29 to January 11 next year. Admission is free.
 
     Apart from the exhibition at museums, the LCSD also collaborates with MTRCL to present “Loping and Looking – Art in MTR”, which will display Xu’s new creations at four MTR stations from March 26 to September 25. Xu will initiate dialogues with the public by writing the greeting “Long time no see”, presented in the form of Square Word Calligraphy, at Sheung Wan Station and present the station names of Admiralty, Exhibition Centre, and Wan Chai with his new writing system, integrating art into the passenger journey. This also marks the first global display of Xu Bing’s creations in public transportation spaces.
 
     For details of the exhibition, please visit the HKMoA’s website (hk.art.museum/en/web/ma/exhibitions-and-events/eying-east-wondering-west.htmlIssued at HKT 13:50

NNNN

14 persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operations (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

14 persons arrested during anti-illegal worker operations  
     The ImmD Task Force conducted an operation at a food expo in the district, according to gathered intelligence. During the operation, some target persons were found promoting and selling food and goods. ImmD Task Force officers arrested 14 suspected illegal workers. The arrested suspected illegal workers comprised four men and 10 women, aged 31 to 45, all Mainland visitors. The investigation is still ongoing, and more persons involved in the case may be arrested.

     An ImmD spokesman said, “Any person who contravenes a condition of stay in force in respect of him or her shall be guilty of an offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to take employment in Hong Kong, whether paid or unpaid, without the permission of the Director of Immigration. Offenders are liable to prosecution and upon conviction face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to two years’ imprisonment. Aiders and abettors are also liable to prosecution and penalties.”Issued at HKT 12:47

NNNN

NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported murder of a person due to police inaction on his complaint about threats to his life in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu

Source: Government of India

NHRC, India takes suo motu cognisance of the reported murder of a person due to police inaction on his complaint about threats to his life in Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu

Reportedly, the victim was actively involved in legal cases against the Waqf land in the area

The Commission issues notices to the State DGP and the District Collector, Tirunelveli calling for a detailed report within four weeks

Posted On: 25 MAR 2025 10:58AM by PIB Delhi

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognisance of a media report that a retired Sub-Inspector of Police was murdered in broad daylight in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu by a group of four persons. Reportedly, the victim was an activist fighting legal cases against the encroachment of Waqf land in the area and had been receiving death threats from some people. He had also alleged that the police was not taking proper action against them as it was hand-in-glove with them.

The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise a serious violation of the human rights of the victim. Therefore, it has issued notices to the Director General of Police and the District Collector, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu calling for a detailed report in the matter within four weeks.

According to the media report, carried on 19th March, 2025, the family of the deceased has alleged that police inaction and gross negligence led to his murder.

***

NSK

(Release ID: 2114683) Visitor Counter : 259