In a major step to promote healthy eating habits among children, the Maharashtra government has banned the sale, advertisement and free distribution of junk food items such as samosa, vada pav, chips and cold drinks inside school premises and within a 50-metre radius of schools.

The decision aims to protect students from unhealthy food choices and encourage nutritious eating habits. The order will be strictly implemented across all schools in the state.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe announced the move on Wednesday, stating that the guidelines will be enforced across Maharashtra. He said all school kitchens and food suppliers providing meals to students must have valid licences under food safety regulations.

The FDA has prohibited the sale and promotion of High Fat, Sugar and Salt (HFSS) foods in and around educational institutions. The ban includes not only selling such products but also advertising and distributing them free of cost within school premises and the 50-metre restricted zone.

Mundhe said the initiative is part of the government’s efforts to improve food safety standards and nutritional practices in schools. Authorities have directed schools and vendors to strictly follow the new regulations.

The Maharashtra government issued a compliance order on July 27 to implement food safety and nutrition standards in educational institutions. The move is expected to benefit nearly two crore students studying in around 1.08 lakh schools across the state.

Officials said regular monitoring will be carried out to ensure compliance, and action will be taken against those violating the new rules. The government believes the measure will help reduce children’s dependence on unhealthy snacks and promote long-term healthy dietary habits.