Karnataka Imposes Statewide Ban on Junk Food in Schools and Hospitals

The Karnataka government has issued a directive on Tuesday banning the sale and distribution of junk food in all state schools and hospitals. The order, released by the Ministry of Education, requires institutions to replace sugary snacks, chips and processed foods with healthier alternatives. Health officials say the move aims to curb rising rates of childhood obesity and improve overall nutrition among students and patients. Schools and hospitals will be inspected by local authorities, and non‑compliance could result in fines or temporary closure of food outlets.