Panel urges inclusive transition in nutrition regulation to protect student futures
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 19 2026: A National Panel Discussion on "Multidisciplinary Nutrition in Transition: Opportunities, Risks, and the Way Forward" was jointly organised by the Home Science Association of India (HSAI) and Banaras Hindu University's Department of Home Science on June 16, 2026 .

Led by HSAI President Prof Madhu Sharan and coordinated by Honorary Secretary Prof Suman Singh, the session featured experts Prof Jagmeet Madan, Prof Pulkit Mathur, Prof Usha Antony, and Prof Mamoni Das, with around 200 academicians and stakeholders attending.

While Prof Madan welcomed the NCAHP as a step toward standardisation and noted that equivalence norms for pre-2026 graduates are being drafted, participants flagged serious concerns.

They warned that without transition mechanisms, thousands of Home Science and Food & Nutrition students could face exclusion from employment due to unclear recognition and rigid regulatory alignment.

The panel stressed that nutrition extends beyond hospital-based dietetics to public health, food science, research, and community development.

It recommended bridge courses, clear equivalence criteria, and joint consultations with UGC, NCAHP, and ICAR.

Urging explicit recognition of Home Science graduates across sectors.

Prof Mukta Singh proposed the vote of thanks, with Prof Neeru Sharma and Dr Komal Chauhan coordinating.

The discussion ended with a call for collaborative, inclusive policy to balance standardisation with academic diversity.

Comment