IWish AI Founder Chinmay Singh Criticises Maharashtra FDA Chief Tukaram Mundhe Over School Junk Food Ban
IWish AI founder Chinmay A Singh criticized Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe's ban on junk food in schools, arguing reforms need formal policy channels rather than individual executive orders. 'You are an individual contributor with 3 letter power that wd disappear as soon as Coke decides to go to court,' Singh said.
Chinmay A Singh, founder of startup IWish AI, has publicly criticised Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe over a sweeping directive that bans chocolates, chips, and cold drinks across schools in the state. Singh argued that sweeping systemic reforms should be pursued through formal policy channels rather than individual administrative orders. The critique follows an announcement by Mundhe prohibiting the sale, storage, display, and advertising of items high in saturated fats, trans fats, added sugar, and sodium within school campuses and a 50-metre radius.
Critic’s Perspective on Administrative Approach
Reacting to the directive on social media, Singh questioned the long-term viability of the commissioner's approach, emphasising that sustainable reforms require institutional backing. "A good manager builds a system that continues to work even when the manager leaves," Singh wrote. What Items Are Banned Under Maharashtra FDA’s School Junk Food Rules? Check Full List.
IWish AI Founder Slams Tukaram Mundhe Over School Chips and Soda Ban
He contended that Mundhe should have operated through proper legislative channels to ban such items legally by convincing the relevant minister, rather than relying on an executive directive. Singh added that Mundhe "won't" succeed in institutionalising the change because he lacks "a mindset of a manager", calling him instead "an individual contributor with 3 letter power that will disappear as soon as Coke decides to go to court".
Scope of the Maharashtra FDA Directive
The order issued by the FDA invokes the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, targeting ultra-processed snacks, carbonated beverages, and items high in fat, salt, and sugar. It covers government, government-aided, and private institutions - including State Board, CBSE, and ICSE-affiliated schools- spanning canteens, tuck shops, hostels, and mid-day meal providers. Under the guidelines, schools are expected to replace processed items with healthier alternatives such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, pulses, and dairy products. Maharashtra FDA Staff Allege Double Shifts, Severe Work Pressure Amid Staff Shortage.
The mandate forms part of a broader regulatory push by Mundhe since taking charge of the state FDA, which has included rigorous enforcement drives focused on food safety and hygiene standards across Maharashtra.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 31, 2026 03:31 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).