Tamil Nadu Plans to Introduce Diabetes-Friendly Meals at 17 Major Temples

The Tamil Nadu Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department is exploring a proposal to provide diabetes-friendly breakfast and dinner options under its Annadhanam (food donation) scheme. This initiative aims to cater to the dietary needs of elderly devotees and individuals managing diabetes who may struggle with the traditional rice-heavy temple offerings.

Implementation Details

• Scope: The plan is currently in the discussion phase and intends to cover 17 prominent temples, including those in Srirangam, Palani, Tiruvannamalai, and Tiruchendur.
• Preparation: Minister C. Sekarbabu stated that officials will first evaluate kitchen capacities and logistical requirements before finalizing the menu and meal timings. Devotees will be consulted during the planning process.

Enhancing Prasad Quality and Transparency

Parallel to the meal initiative, the department has introduced measures to standardize the quality and sales of 'Prasadam' across state temples:

• Standardization: The department has defined the ratios, production costs, and retail pricing for 10 common Prasad items to ensure consistency and transparency.
• Production Policies: Temples with adequate facilities are being encouraged to prepare Prasadam on-site to mitigate issues related to labeling and expiration dates seen with some third-party contractors.
• Labeling Requirements: All packaged Prasadam must now display essential details, including the manufacturer's name, net quantity, date of manufacture, MRP, and consumer grievance contact details. Use of Aavin ghee and eco-friendly packaging is also being emphasized.

Citizens are encouraged to check official HR&CE department notifications or visit local temple notice boards for further updates on these initiatives.