Parliament Canteen Introduces New Health-Focused Menu

Speedy Summary

• Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has introduced a wellness initiative with a new “health menu” in the Parliament canteen.
• The menu features millet-based dishes like ragi millet idli, jowar upma, and sugar-free mix millet kheer, alongside fibre-rich salads and protein-packed soups.
• Customary Indian items such as chana chaat and moong dal chilla are included.
• Low-carb and nutrient-dense non-vegetarian options like grilled chicken with boiled vegetables (157 kcal) and grilled fish (378 kcal) are also available.
• Calorie counts for each dish are listed on the menu to promote informed eating decisions.
• Healthy beverages like green/herbal teas, masala sattu, and jaggery-flavored mango panna now replace sugary drinks on the beverage list.
• This initiative aligns with nationwide efforts to raise awareness against obesity,which Prime Minister Modi highlighted recently in his Mann Ki Baat address.

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Indian Opinion analysis

This move to introduce healthier food options in Parliament canteens underlines India’s increasing focus on combating lifestyle-related health issues such as obesity and diabetes. by incorporating millets-dubbed “super grains”-and nutrient-rich traditional recipes into meals at one of India’s most influential institutions, the government sets an example for wider adoption across public spaces nationwide during the International Year of Millets campaign.

the public sector emphasis on showcasing calorie-conscious meals helps normalize informed eating habits among policymakers while promoting culturally rooted options rather than processed foods. Substantially replacing sugary beverages offers practical steps towards tackling consumption patterns that frequently enough lead to metabolic disorders.

While symbolic acts like this create awareness among lawmakers who shape national policies, broader initiatives targeting everyday citizens will be key if India aims to translate this trend into tangible health improvements across its population base.

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