As lakhs of pilgrims prepare to embark on the Char Dham Yatra 2025, the Uttarakhand government, in collaboration with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has intensified its focus on the well-being of devotees.
In a significant move, food establishments along the yatra route are being sensitised and trained to prepare meals low in salt, sugar, and oil—keeping in mind the dietary needs of individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and other lifestyle-related conditions.
‘Eat Right India’ meets spiritual wellness
The dietary intervention is rooted in FSSAI’s national initiative, Eat Right India, which aims to combat non-communicable diseases by promoting safe and healthy food environments.
Key dietary guidelines for pilgrims & eateries:
- Reduce Salt: Avoid extra salt in cooked meals, dough, salads, and curd. Say no to papads, pickles, and MSG-laden ingredients.
- Cut Down on Sugar: Use natural sweeteners like fruits and dates. Avoid sugary beverages and desserts.
- Use Less Oil: Encourage boiling, steaming, or roasting over deep-frying. Prefer low-fat dairy.
These changes not only promote better health but also reduce the risk of complications among elderly and vulnerable pilgrims during the arduous journey.
Building on the movement, the Uttarakhand Food Safety Department launched the “Aaj Se Thoda Kam” campaign in March 2025. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to cut down on salt, sugar, and oil, the campaign aims to promote healthier eating habits. The campaign sets forth its objectives to:
- Encourage behavioral change in food consumption patterns.
- Sensitize hotels, dhabas, and street vendors to serve food with less oil, salt, and sugar.
- Educate pilgrims and residents alike on the risks of excess consumption of these ingredients.
The campaign uses creative messaging and on-ground engagement with food handlers to help reduce the incidence of heart disease, obesity, and diabetes among the masses.
Training and awareness for eateries on
Char Dham Route-
Uttarakhand FDA has already begun:
- Training frontline staff in Rishikesh, Srinagar, and Rudraprayag.
- Expanding training to Haridwar, Chamba, and Uttarkashi.
- Promoting the Green Char Dham Yatra, encouraging minimal use of single-use plastic alongside healthier meals.
Food vendors are being provided with standard recipe cards and dietary guidelines to support these goals. So far, 236 participants have been at various important stations like Tehri, Rudraprayag, Srinagar, Uttarkashi and Chamba etc.
Health safetymeasures for pilgrims – Beyond diet, the Uttarakhand Health Department has rolled out other health safety initiatives:
- Registration on the Health and Tourism App.
- Availability of medical screening kiosks along the yatra route.
- Pre-yatra advice on yoga, breathing exercises, and hydration.
- Issuing multilingual Health Advisories for pilgrims
- Encouragement to carry prescribed medications and consult doctors before travel.
