Tukaram Mundhe at Idea Exchange: ‘Rules and regulations exist. We need an executive instrument to take them to stakeholders and implement them’

Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe recently discussed food safety enforcement at Idea Exchange, emphasizing the need for a shift in governance and implementation. He explained that while regulations have evolved, the culture of enforcement hasn't kept pace, leading to inconsistent interpretations. The new Act consolidated various Acts and orders governing the food sector under one framework.

Mundhe elaborated on the FDA's "E3" strategy, which focuses on empowering people, enabling businesses, and enforcing the law. He highlighted the importance of awareness and sensitisation among people and stakeholders, noting that the FDA's sector-specific compliance orders aim to address specific issues such as prohibited items, hotels, restaurants, milk and milk products, and loose oil.

Mundhe defended his actions, explaining that the laws exist and it's his role to implement them through executive instruments. He clarified that the festival order applies to all festivals throughout the year across Maharashtra and is neutral in terms of religion and culture, focusing solely on food safety.