New Delhi: The University Grant Commission (UGC) has asked all universities and higher education institutions to ban availability and sale of junk foods on the premises of their campuses.
“Banning junk food in colleges would set new standards for healthy food and make the students live better, and learn better and also reduce the obesity levels in young learners. This will prevent life style diseases which have a direct link with excessive weight, the UGC said in a communique to all universities.
The circular was issued in pursuant to an earlier directive of the ministry of Human Resources Development, asking UGC to ban the sale of junk foods on the premises of higher education institutions.
“You are requested to ensure strict adherence to the advisory and create awareness among young generation who are vulnerable to such dangerous exposures,” the UGC wrote to the vice-chancellors of all universities.
“You are requested to take appropriate steps in this regard and inform the action taken to the UGC at the earliest on the University Activity Portal,” the circular added.
All the universities are requested to take necessary action on the following points:-
- To implement measures to sensitize the students on ill effects of junk food.
- Universities can serve as important data sources on student’s health. Information on markers like body mass index (BMl)/percentage of body weighVwaist hip ratio etc. can help in creating awareness among students towards their health.
- Orientation programs for faculty and staff be conducted on health issues.
- Wellness clusters should be created under the Students Welfare Department where counseling should be done regarding proper nutrition, proper exercise and healthy habits. These wellness clusters can also provide psychological support to the students to prevent and reduce the incidence of obesity in young students.
Ms Kalinga