Varanasi: A national panel discussion on “Multidisciplinary Nutrition in Transition: Opportunities, Risks, and the Way Forward” was jointly organized by the Home Science Association of India (HSAI) and the Department of Home Science, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) on June 16, bringing together leading academicians and experts to deliberate on the future of nutrition education and professional regulation in India.

The session was chaired by HSAI President Prof. Madhu Sharan and coordinated by Prof. Suman Singh, Honorary Secretary of HSAI. Eminent experts including Prof. Jagmeet Madan, Prof. Pulkit Mathur, Prof. Usha Antony and Prof. Mamoni Das participated in the discussion, which was attended by nearly 200 academicians and stakeholders from across the country.

Speaking during the event, Prof. Jagmeet Madan welcomed the establishment of the National Commission for Allied and Healthcare Professions (NCAHP) as a step towards standardization in the field. She informed participants that provisions regarding equivalence for students who graduated before 2026 are currently under draft and are expected to provide greater clarity.

However, several panelists and participants expressed concern that the existing regulatory framework, if implemented without adequate transition measures, could negatively affect thousands of students enrolled in Home Science and Food & Nutrition programmes across universities. Concerns centred on the lack of clarity regarding recognition of qualifications, potential exclusion from employment opportunities and difficulties in harmonizing diverse academic systems under a uniform regulatory structure.

The panel emphasized that nutrition is a multidisciplinary field extending beyond hospital-based dietetics and plays a significant role in public health, food science, research and community development. Experts stressed the need to safeguard existing academic programmes and ensure that current students are not disadvantaged by policy changes.

Among the key recommendations were the introduction of bridge courses, the formulation of clear equivalence criteria and the adoption of a consultative approach involving the University Grants Commission (UGC), NCAHP, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and other stakeholders. The panel also called for explicit recognition of Home Science graduates for relevant professional positions across sectors.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Mukta Singh of BHU. The event was coordinated by Prof. Neeru Sharma and Dr. Komal Chauhan.

The discussion ended with a strong appeal for collaborative and inclusive policy implementation, with participants emphasizing that efforts towards standardization should not come at the cost of academic diversity, professional opportunities and the future prospects of students.