Haryana Government Approves Major Funding for Enhanced Food Safety Infrastructure
In a significant move to bolster food and drug safety mechanisms, the Haryana government has sanctioned a substantial allocation of Rs 53.21 crore. This funding is specifically earmarked for upgrading regulatory infrastructure within the National Capital Region (NCR). The comprehensive initiative includes the deployment of 28 Mobile Food Testing Laboratory (MFTL) vans, alongside the modernization of the District Food Laboratory located in Karnal.
Key Investments in Laboratory Upgrades and Equipment
Dr. Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, emphasized that this project represents a crucial advancement towards providing faster, scientifically robust, and more accessible food testing services for the public. The District Food Testing Laboratory in Karnal has undergone extensive renovations, funded by Rs 90.29 lakh from the State Budget and an additional Rs 50 lakh grant-in-aid from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
To further enhance its capabilities, the procurement of 47 modern laboratory equipment items, valued at Rs 4.63 crore, is currently in progress through the Haryana Medical Services Corporation Limited (HMSCL), with the tender process nearing completion. Additionally, the Karnal facility has been upgraded with a dedicated Microbiology Section, established at a cost of Rs 3.96 crore, fully funded by FSSAI.
Expansion of Testing Facilities Across the Region
Dr. Misra also highlighted ongoing developments in Chandigarh, where the establishment of a Microbiology Laboratory, funded by the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB) in New Delhi with an investment of Rs 4.44 crore, is approximately 80 percent complete. This facility is projected to become operational by March 2026. Furthermore, renovation work on the Food Lab in Chandigarh, supported by a Central-State share grant of Rs 10.45 crore, has been finalized, and the laboratory has been equipped with three high-end instruments.
Currently, Haryana operates two notified food testing laboratories in Chandigarh and Karnal, both of which are accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL) and recognized by FSSAI under Section 43(1) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Future Plans for Food Safety and Street Food Hygiene
Acknowledging the critical role of milk and dairy products in the state's diet, as well as Haryana's status as a prominent hub for athletes, Dr. Misra announced plans to establish eight state-of-the-art food testing laboratories in phases. This strategic expansion aims to ensure consistently high-quality food standards throughout the state.
In parallel efforts to promote hygienic street food practices, four cities—Ambala, Karnal, Hisar, and Gurugram—have been selected for the development of Clean Street Food Hubs. Specific progress includes:
- Ambala: A 60-shop Street Food Hub is under construction at Gandhi Ground, Ambala Cantt, with an expected completion date of February 2026.
- Hisar: Approximately 60 percent of the work has been finished, with the project targeted for completion by the end of the current financial year.
- Karnal: Land near the Western Yamuna Canal at Vishwakarma Chowk has been identified, and the Detailed Project Report has been approved, aiming for completion in 2026–27.
- Gurugram: The project is currently at the tendering stage.
These initiatives collectively underscore the Haryana government's commitment to strengthening food safety frameworks, enhancing public health, and supporting the state's dietary and athletic communities through improved regulatory measures.
