LUCKNOW, July 7 -- As the Kanwar Yatra begins on July 11, the Uttar Pradesh government has introduced a new digital measure to strengthen food safety: all food vendors along the pilgrimage route will now be required to display QR-code-based licences and complaint details. These QR codes, linked to the Food Safety Connect App, will allow pilgrims to instantly verify hygiene approvals and report unsafe practices.

Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) commissioner Rajesh Kumar, in a circular to regional officers, ordered "uncompromising vigilance" at food stalls, roadside vendors, and bhandaras (community kitchens). He warned that any lapse in hygiene enforcement would lead to disciplinary action against officials.

Under the updated p...