UGC directs universities to ban junk food on campuses
Grants Commission (UGC) has asked universities across the country to take stringent measures against the sale of junk food on campuses and sensitise students against the illeffects of eating unhealthy food. In a letter issued to the vice-chancellors of all varsities, also available on its website, the UGC said banning junk food would help students reduce their obesity levels and live a better life. Earlier this year, Punjab banned the sale of junk food in schools, while Manipur, Odisha, Chandigarh and Madhya Pradesh imposed restrictions on it. Junk food is linked to the growing epidemic of noncommunicable diseases across the world. It should be avoided as it is high on saturated fats and calories, but low on nutrition.