Following increased productivity in Parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has now initiated efforts to prioritize the health of Members of Parliament, officials, and visitors.
New Delhi: A significant step towards promoting healthy eating has been taken in the Indian Parliament. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has prioritized the health of MPs, officials, and visitors working in the Parliament House complex by implementing a major change in the Parliament canteen menu. The canteen will now offer nutritious dishes such as ragi-millet idli, jowar upma, moong dal chilla, and sattu. This initiative is considered an important step in line with government campaigns like the Fit India Movement and 'Eat Right India'.
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla's Vision: No Compromise on Health
The Lok Sabha Speaker has clearly stated that the health of MPs and staff should be given special consideration during long Parliament sessions and late-night proceedings. He believes that better decisions can be made in the interest of the country only with a healthy body and mind. With this in mind, the Parliament canteen menu has been redesigned from a health perspective.
What Will Be Available in the New Parliament Canteen?
The Parliament canteen is now fully prepared to serve nutrient-rich and low-calorie dishes. The menu specifically includes foods that the United Nations promoted during the International Year of Millets 2023.
Main Dishes
- Ragi-Millet Idli (with sambar and chutney) — only 270 calories
- Jowar Upma — 206 calories
- Moong Dal Chilla — Low-calorie, high-protein option
- Mixed Millet Kheer (sugar-free) — 161 calories
Salads and Light Snacks
- Barley and Jowar Healthy Salad — 294 calories
- Garden Fresh Salad — only 113 calories
- Roasted Tomato and Basil Healthy Broth
- Vegetable Clear Soup, Hot Soups
Non-Vegetarian Options
- Grilled Chicken with Vegetables — 157 calories
- Grilled Fish with Vegetables — 378 calories
Beverages
- Green Tea and Herbal Tea
- Masala Sattu Drink
- Jaggery-based Aam Panna
Now, sattu, herbal tea, and indigenous healthy options will replace soda and sugar-loaded drinks in Parliament.
Why is This Change Necessary for Health?
Proceedings in Parliament House often run late into the night, and junk food or heavy food can negatively impact the health of MPs. Low-calorie, high-protein, and fiber-rich foods will not only provide physical energy to MPs but also maintain mental focus and efficiency. Under the leadership of the Lok Sabha Speaker, initiatives such as regular health checkup camps, health seminars, and fitness lectures are continuously being conducted in Parliament.
In addition, the central government is running several national health programs like the Fit India Movement, Khelo India, National Nutrition Mission, Eat Right India, NP-NCD (National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke).
Why is Millet Being Prioritized?
Millets like jowar, bajra, and ragi are now being considered superfoods globally. These grains are not only beneficial for digestion but also reduce the risk of diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. Rich in fiber, iron, and protein, these grains provide long-term energy to the body.
This healthy food initiative in Parliament is associated with the message that if the country's parliamentary system remains healthy and energetic, the decisions will also be far-sighted and effective. For MPs and officials, this change is not just about food but also about adopting a healthy lifestyle.
