Colombo: The government is set to launch a nationwide initiative aimed at establishing new restaurants to ensure food security and provide the public with access to nutritious and affordable meals. This effort seeks to balance accessibility with health standards, ensuring that citizens receive sufficient nutrition at reasonable prices.

According to News.LK, this programme will be implemented in collaboration with the National Food Promotion Board, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Agriculture. Current restaurant owners will also be involved to secure their support. The first model restaurant under this initiative is scheduled to open on April 01 in Narahenpita.

In the second phase, the government plans to enhance the standards of existing restaurants. A preliminary discussion on this programme took place at the Presidential Secretariat, involving officials from the National Food Promotion Board, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Agriculture.

During the discussion, officials underscored the importance of safeguarding the public’s right to safe and nutritious food. Key aspects addressed included creating an environment conducive to accessing food that meets health standards, building consumer trust, and promoting public-private sector collaboration.

Additionally, the dialogue explored practical implementation of existing food policies, ensuring the business community recognizes the significance of providing nutritious and safe meals. Officials also discussed the “Clean Sri Lanka” initiative’s role in transforming the food sector.

The meeting was attended by Kapila Bandara, Senior Additional Secretary to the President, S.P.C. Sugeeshwara, Additional Secretary to the President, and other senior officials from the National Food Promotion Board, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Agriculture.