Chandigarh: Haryana is expanding its modern food testing laboratory network and strengthening enforcement through recruitment, infrastructure upgrades, and inter-departmental coordination, said chief secretary Anurag Rastogi. The reforms are aimed at positioning the state as a model in food safety governance.
Infrastructure Expansion
During a high-level meeting of the State Level Advisory Committee of the food and drugs administration department, Rastogi stated that the focus is on expanding testing infrastructure in collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India. This includes proposed Comprehensive Integrated Food Testing Laboratories at multiple districts.
The state has approved eight new food testing laboratories, with two laboratories to be established in the 2026-27 financial year at Hisar and Narnaul, backed by a Rs 24 crore allocation, the chief secretary informed.
Recruitment and Enforcement
Recruitment has been initiated for food safety officers, with 12 additional posts proposed and deputation of eight officers expected to strengthen field enforcement.
In 2025-26, enforcement actions led to 2,211 samples collected, 805 non-conforming cases identified, 111 convictions secured, and Rs 2.35 crore in penalties imposed, he added.
Grassroots Monitoring
The meeting was also informed that district-level advisory committees are now functional across all districts, enhancing grassroots monitoring and stakeholder participation in food safety governance.
Senior officials from multiple departments attended the meeting, underscoring the collaborative approach to food safety.
