Front-of-Package Labeling: A Crucial Step Towards Protecting Children’s Health

Representatives from various political parties such as Prof. Sanjay Paswan, Member of Legislative Council (MLC), Mr. Jahangir Khan, National Executive Committee Member of Janata Dal United, Mr. Jeetendra Nath, National Vice President of Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal, and others assembled at the event.

For over three decades, Mr. Lenin Raghuvanshi and his organization have been champions of indigenous wisdom fused with scientific temper, advocating for the marginalized with unparalleled depth. Their recent endeavor, the Patna Declaration, stands as a testament to their tireless efforts in effecting meaningful change. Through strategic analysis and grassroots advocacy, they’ve propelled critical issues, such as warning label Front-of-Package Labeling (FOPL), into the forefront of policy discussions.

The Patna Declaration, a culmination of collaborative efforts among various political parties and civil society organizations, underscores the urgency of addressing the health risks posed by processed and ultra-processed foods. With a unanimous agreement to implement warning label FOPL, stakeholders have demonstrated a collective commitment to safeguarding the well-being of Indian children.

The unveiling of the Patna Declaration by delegates from political parties.

The dialogue held at the Kasturba Gandhi Assembly Hall in Patna served as a pivotal moment in this advocacy journey. Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, founder of the Peoples’ Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), highlighted the alarming statistics from the National Family Health Survey-5 (NFHS-5), emphasizing the imperative need for FOPL implementation. His meticulous engagement with policymakers and stakeholders has garnered substantial support, with notable figures like Mr. Jeetendra Nath and Mr. Ram Babu echoing the urgency of this demand.

The Patna Declaration, endorsed by representatives across the political spectrum, outlines six key recommendations aimed at promoting informed consumer choices and combating the rising tide of non-communicable diseases. These recommendations, rooted in scientific evidence and global best practices, advocate for stringent regulations on negative nutrients while incentivizing the production of healthier alternatives.

Leaders of political parties joining Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in support of the Patna Declaration

Following this, representatives from all political parties came together to officially launch the Patna Declaration, endorsing it by affixing their signatures. Each representative pledged to incorporate the demands outlined in the declaration into their respective party’s upcoming election manifestos. Notable attendees included:

• Prof. Sanjay Paswan, Member of Legislative Council, and Mr. Chandresh Singh, State Secretary, Bharatiya Janata Party.
• Mr. Jahangir Khan, National Executive Committee Member, Janata Dal United.
• Former MP, Mr. Ali Anwar.
• Mr. Sanjay Paswan, State Secretary, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas).
• Ms. Rinku Kumari, Bihar Women’s Association.
• Dr. Amit Kumar Paswan, representing the Unorganized Worker and Employee unit of the Congress Party (Bihar).
• Prof. Arun Kumar Singh, Jan Swaraj.
• Additionally, representatives from Bihar Election Watch, NAPM, Farmers’ Union, and various Civil Society Organizations were also in attendance.

The gathering was graced by the presence of influential leaders such as Mr. Ram Babu, the State Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) of Bihar, and Mr. Jeetendra Nath, National Vice President of Rashtriya Lok Janata Dal.

Moreover, PVCHR’s proactive engagement with elected representatives has been instrumental in advancing legislative initiatives. Through targeted dialogues and thoughtful responses, he has galvanized support from key stakeholders, amplifying the advocacy efforts on FOPL implementation. The recent parliamentary inquiry led by Shri Jayant Chaudhary further underscores the growing momentum behind this cause, signaling a paradigm shift in policy discourse surrounding “healthy foods.”

As we navigate the complexities of public health challenges, the integration of FOPL into electoral manifestos stands as a beacon of hope for a healthier, more informed society. Mr. Raghuvanshi’s unwavering dedication and strategic acumen continue to drive meaningful change, laying the groundwork for a future where every child’s health is prioritized.

In conclusion, the Patna Declaration represents a watershed moment in the journey towards protecting children’s health. By championing FOPL and fostering multisectoral collaboration, PVCHR and his allies have set a precedent for proactive policymaking and grassroots advocacy, leaving an indelible mark on India’s public health landscape.