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PVCHR and Ashok Thakur's Advocacy Reflected in Economic Survey and Ultra-Processed Food Policies

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  The People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), under the leadership of Shruti Nagvanshi and Lenin Raghuvanshi, has been at the forefront of advocating for marginalized communities. One of their significant efforts has been pushing for policy reforms that address socio-economic inequalities and public health challenges. Recently, an appeal by Shri Ashok Thakur, Director of NAFED and in charge of Bharatiya Janata Party – New Delhi, alongside PVCHR’s continued advocacy, has made a tangible impact by influencing the Economic Survey of India and policies related to ultra-processed food regulation. MPs Round-table: Children Nutrition and Ultra-Processed Food On March 20, 2023, PVCHR and PIPAL successfully organized the MPs Round-table: Children Nutrition and Ultra-Processed Food at the Deputy Speaker Hall of the Constitution Club of India, New Delhi. The event brought together senior Members of Parliament, politicians, and civil society representatives to discuss urgent pol...
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Sugar – The New Tobacco? Sena MP Milind Deora’s Call for a Ban on Ads Targeting Kids

 In a bold and much-needed intervention in the Rajya Sabha, Sena MP Milind Deora took a strong stand against the growing menace of excessive sugar consumption, particularly among children. Raising concerns over the deceptive marketing tactics employed by major brands, Deora urged the Union Health Minister to ban advertisements targeting kids —a move that perfectly aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Anti-Obesity Campaign . The Sugar Trap – A Silent Epidemic For decades, sugary drinks and processed foods have been aggressively marketed to children, shaping their dietary preferences from an early age. Studies have linked high sugar intake to rising cases of childhood obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders . Health experts have long argued that sugar is the new tobacco—equally addictive, damaging, and silently fueling a global health crisis. Why This Ban Matters? Protecting Young Consumers – Children are highly impressionable and often lack the abi...
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Support for Economic Survey 2024-25 Recommendations to Regulate Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and Address Public Health Concerns

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Rejoinder to NHRC Chairperson on behalf of PVCHR  in case number  case no. 4227/90/0/2021   Subject: Support for Economic Survey 2024-25 Recommendations to Regulate Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) and Address Public Health Concerns Date: 4 February 2025 Dear Honorable Chairperson, I, Shruti Nagvanshi, on behalf of the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), would like to extend our full support for the Nutrition Advocacy in Public Interest (NAPi)'s commendation of the Economic Survey 2024-25. This survey marks a significant milestone in addressing public health concerns in India, particularly regarding the regulation of ultra-processed foods (UPFs) that are often high in fats, salt, and sugar. The Economic Survey's recognition of the harmful impact of UPFs on both physical and mental health is a timely and necessary step. As the survey correctly points out, the increasing consumption of UPFs, such as sweetened breakfast cereals, soft drinks, chips, and energy dr...
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The Hidden Threat of Ultraprocessed Foods: A Public Health Crisis

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 In today’s fast-paced world, ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) have become a convenient staple in many households. From soda to frozen pizza, these ready-to-eat products are easy to access, affordable, and appealing. However, a growing body of research reveals the serious health risks posed by UPFs, sparking global concern about their impact on human rights—particularly the right to health. Recent studies and alarming media reports highlight the dangers associated with these foods, linking them to chronic diseases, cognitive decline, and systemic health deterioration. It’s time to take action to address this public health crisis. Neurological Risks: Brain Aging and Cognitive Decline A recent report from Hindustan (dated December 5, 2024) sheds light on new findings from Italy’s Institute of Neurology. The research underscores the devastating effects of UPFs on brain health: Premature Brain Aging: UPFs, especially those prepared at high temperatures, produce neurotoxic compounds that h...
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Pandit Nanhku Maharaj Memorial: Fourth Annual Music Festival Celebrates a Spectacular Evening of Classical Music and Dance in Varanasi

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  Pooja Madhok and Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi warmly welcoming dignitaries at the fourth annual Pandit Nanhku Maharaj Memorial Music Festival, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening of classical music and dance in Varanasi. ✨ Pandit Nanhku Maharaj Memorial: Fourth Annual Music Festival Celebrates Classical Music and Dance in Varanasi ✨ 🌟 Kathak Masters Pandit Ravishankar Mishra & Dr. Mamta Tandon’s Mesmerizing Performances Light Up the Evening 🌟 Honoring the legacy of the legendary tabla maestro Pandit Nanhku Maharaj, Varanasi witnessed an enchanting evening on November 9, 2024, at Dalim Sunbeam School, Ramkatora. From spellbinding Kathak duets to soul-stirring Thumri and Bhajans, the event celebrated India’s classical traditions in an unforgettable tribute. 🎶 Highlights of the Evening 🎶 Kathak Recital: The Banaras Gharana duo, Pandit Ravishankar Mishra and Dr. Mamta Tandon, captivated audiences with Ganesh Vandana, Shiva Shakti invocations, and Radha-Krishna Nritya. ...
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Ensuring Public Health: The NHRC’s Ongoing Battle with Food Safety Standards and the Rise of Non-Communicable Diseases in India

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An illustration capturing India's commitment to addressing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) through strengthened food safety regulations. The National Human Rights Commission is working alongside the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to implement standards that combat high salt, sugar, and fat content in packaged foods—a crucial step in safeguarding public health across the nation.  In recent years, the landscape of public health in India has been increasingly shaped by the escalating impact of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity. These ailments have become the leading causes of morbidity and mortality, demanding urgent, proactive action. Among the primary culprits contributing to this surge in NCDs is the widespread consumption of processed and packaged foods laden with excessive salt, fat, and sugar. While these ingredients enhance the taste and shelf life of these products, they also impose significant heal...
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