📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / N. Vivekananthamoorthy
Food
Maharashtra FDA chief cautions eateries near schools, colleges, cites 8‑10‑day crackdown
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 19 Aug 2026, 08:18 PM
👁 36
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration chief warned food outlets operating close to schools and colleges that violations will trigger a major enforcement action within the next eight to ten days.
Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) chief issued a stern warning to restaurants, canteens and other food outlets situated within the vicinity of schools and colleges. The official said that any breach of food‑safety norms in these premises will attract a "major impact" in the form of intensified inspections and penalties within the next eight to ten days.
The directive follows growing concerns that sub‑standard food being served to students could pose health risks. Inspectors are being instructed to conduct surprise checks, verify hygiene standards, and ensure that vendors possess valid licenses and adhere to prescribed storage and preparation practices.
Authorities indicated that establishments found non‑compliant could face closure orders, hefty fines or legal action. The FDA chief emphasized that the short timeline is intended to prompt immediate corrective measures and protect the wellbeing of young consumers.
Stakeholders, including school administrations and parent‑teacher associations, have been urged to cooperate with the enforcement drive and report any irregularities they observe on campus premises.
The directive follows growing concerns that sub‑standard food being served to students could pose health risks. Inspectors are being instructed to conduct surprise checks, verify hygiene standards, and ensure that vendors possess valid licenses and adhere to prescribed storage and preparation practices.
Authorities indicated that establishments found non‑compliant could face closure orders, hefty fines or legal action. The FDA chief emphasized that the short timeline is intended to prompt immediate corrective measures and protect the wellbeing of young consumers.
Stakeholders, including school administrations and parent‑teacher associations, have been urged to cooperate with the enforcement drive and report any irregularities they observe on campus premises.