The Directorate of Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on October 09, 2026, has announced a special drive to identify unlicensed caterers and unregistered party halls. Owners have been directed to apply for the mandatory FSSAI licence or registration through the FoSCoS portal or approach the FDA office/help desk within three weeks. Caterers must comply with hygiene requirements under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and ensure that every food handler holds a valid sanitary card.
Party hall operators, including those managing private or religious premises hired for events involving food preparation and serving, must obtain and prominently display the applicable FSSAI licence or registration certificate. They must also ensure adequate kitchen and pantry facilities, proper waste disposal, potable water and a permanent kitchen/pantry structure for caterers. Violations may attract prosecution under Section 63 of the Act and a penalty of up to ₹10 lakh.
[Notification No. DIP/NB/AXP/GJG/CR/SN/2026/693]
