Sri Fatehgarh Sahib/16 July:
(Ravinder Singh Dhindsa)
The Public Against Adulteration Welfare Association (PAAWA), in collaboration with Desh Bhagat University, Faculty of Performing Arts and Media successfully conducted a seminar titled “Awareness Against Food Adulteration,” drawing participation from over 200 students across diverse academic disciplines.
The seminar aimed to educate young minds about the growing health hazards posed by junk and adulterated foods, focusing on harmful additives, preservatives, and the urgent need for preventive awareness and healthier lifestyle choices. Dr. Zora Singh, Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University, graced the event as Chief Guest. In his address, he lauded PAAWA's initiative as a vital step toward addressing a pressing public health crisis. He urged youth to shun junk food and adopt nutritious eating habits. Dr. Tajinder Kaur, Pro-Chancellor, was the Special Guest of Honour at the event. Justice (Retd) Jora Singh, Chief Patron of PAAWA and former Judge of Punjab & Haryana High Court, emphasized PAAWA’s mission to combat food adulteration through education, policy advocacy, and collaboration with agencies like FSSAI and FDA. He highlighted similar initiatives, including a previous seminar. Expert speakers discussed critical topics such as common food adulterants, health implications, legal frameworks for food safety, and simple home tests for adulteration. The session encouraged active student engagement and awareness.
The seminar also featured prominent PAAWA members including President Amarjit Singh, Vice Presidents Capt. Balvinder Singh and Birinder Singh (Retd. Sessions Judge), General Secretary Surjit Singh Bhatoa, Kulwant Singh Lehra and Kulwant Singh Purba, Joint Secretaries, Adv. Yadbinder Pal Singh, Legal Advisor, Dr Arjan Singh, Dr Surjit Kaur Patheja DBU, stage secretary Bhagwan Das and several district leaders from Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh. A vote of thanks was delivered by Birinder Singh, who expressed gratitude to the university and participants. Students added vibrancy to the event with cultural performances and interactive discussions, making it a memorable and impactful awareness drive.