ATM News Network: The "Eat Right Millet Mela," jointly organized by the Food and Drug Administration in Nashik and Krantiveer Vasantrao Naik Pharmacy Mahavidyalaya, culminated with great enthusiasm on September 25, 2023. This event aimed to promote the consumption of nutritious cereals, particularly millets, among the youth.
The event took place from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at Krantiveer Vasantrao Naik Pharmacy College, Nashik, and witnessed the active participation of 400 students. Distinguished guests and officials, including Ad Shri P.R. Gite, Vice President of Krantiveer Vasantrao Naik Pharmacy Mahavidyalaya, Mr. Jaibhave from the Food and Drug Administration (Maharashtra State), Mr. Sanjay Naragude, Joint Commissioner (Food) of Nashik Division, Mr. U.C. Lohkare, Assistant Commissioner (Food), Mr. Vivek Patil, Assistant Commissioner (Food), Mr. M. Mo. Sanap, Assistant Commissioner (Food), Mr. Pravin Patil, Zilla Parishad Education Officer, Mr. Ganesh Phulsunder, Deputy Education Officer, and others graced the occasion.
The program, expertly moderated by Professor Shri Amol Patil, began with a warm welcome by Mr. Darekar, Principal of Krantiveer Vasantrao Naik Pharmacy Mahavidyalaya. The spotlight then turned to Mr. Shashikant Bodke from Shetsari Pharma Producer Company, Nashik, who provided valuable insights into the significance of coarse grains in a balanced diet. He elaborated on various millet varieties, such as Bajri, Jwari, Nachani, Bhagar, Rala, and their role in fostering a healthy lifestyle. Mr. Bodke led an oath-taking ceremony, encouraging all present, including students, to incorporate millets into their daily diets.
Mr. U.C. Lohkare, Assistant Commissioner (Food), offered guidance on making informed choices while purchasing food items. The event also celebrated the winners of the district-level essay writing competition organized by the Food and Drug Administration, Nashik Division. These talented students were honored with medals and certificates by the esteemed dignitaries present.
Adding cultural flair to the occasion, Bharud Samrat Shri Rajendra Kale, Nashik, presented traditional Powad, Bharud, and Lavani performances centered around millets. Vice President Mr. P.R. Gite passionately advocated for millet consumption in his address.
Mr. Sanjay Naragude, Joint Commissioner (Food), proposed that Mahavidyalaya students create street dramas and awareness teams to spread knowledge about millets in the community.
In alignment with the International Year of Millet 2023, the administration organized an essay competition on the topic of cereals in Nashik district, attracting participation from around 60 schools. Certificates and badges of honour were bestowed upon the competition's winners.
Additionally, the event featured stalls showcasing food products made from cereals, providing attendees with practical insights into the significance of these nutritious grains in our diets.
The Eat Right Millet Mela came to a close with heartfelt gratitude extended to all participants, led by Smt. Saili Patwardhan, the Food Safety Officer of the Administration. The event successfully inspired the youth of Nashik to embrace the goodness of millets for a healthier lifestyle.