Pune, 12th September 2026: Ganesh mandals distributing prasad or serving food to devotees during Ganeshotsav will have to register with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) this year.
The move aims to ensure that food served during the 10-day festival is prepared and distributed hygienically and remains safe for consumption.
The FDA has recently issued guidelines for Ganesh mandals involved in food donation and prasad distribution. Under the new rules, mandals providing food to devotees are required to complete the registration process.
However, several mandals remain unclear about who is required to register, how the process works and what information needs to be submitted.
Registration is available for different periods depending on the requirement. Mandals can register for 10 days during Ganeshotsav, three months or 12 months. The registration fee for the 10-day and three-month periods is Rs 100, according to FDA Pune Joint Commissioner Digambar Bhogawade.
The FDA Pune division has formed special teams to monitor food distribution during the festival. The teams will visit Ganesh mandals and inspect the quality and safety of prasad and other food being served to devotees.
The inspection will also focus on hygiene during food preparation, including cleanliness at cooking and distribution locations. Mandals found following unsafe or unhygienic food practices may face action under the applicable food safety rules.
Ganesh mandals distributing food or prasad can register through the FDA's designated online portal.
Mandal representatives have been asked to submit their details through the registration link: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in/apply-for-lic-and-reg
The FDA has urged all mandals planning food distribution during Ganeshotsav to complete the registration process and follow the prescribed food safety and hygiene requirements.
