First batch of vendors trained in food hygiene

Delhi has been divided into 10 zones, with a total of 40 centres to train 40 vendors each

Food safety regulator FSSAI in association with National Association of Street Vendors of India (NASVI) trained the first batch of street vendors in the Capital under ‘Project Clean Street Food’ on Sunday. The programme, which aims to train 20,000 street food vendors in Delhi a month’s time, was launched by Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda and Union Minister of State Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (Independent Charge) Rajiv Pratap Rudy.

Speaking at the event, Mr Nadda said, “Food-borne diseases pose a big challenge in the country. Hence, it is vital to train street vendors in hygienic food handling techniques.” Mr Rudy linked the initiative to the Centre’s flagship “Skill India” mission, and said the idea of “certified street food vendors” would soon be a reality.

The programme was organised at New Moti Bagh club. On the first day, 40 vendors were trained. Five vendors received the “Skill card.” “NASVI has been mobilising food vendors to participate in the project. Delhi has been divided into 10 zones, with a total of 40 centres to train 40 vendors each,” said Arbind Singh, Co-ordinator, NASVI. A street food festival organised on the occasion pulled large crowds.

As part of the effort, all food vendors of the city will begin wearing safety gears needed for maintaining hygiene.