The Union Cabinet approved the signing of an agreement between India and Bhutan in the field of food security on 13 March 2024. An agreement has been established between the Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA), the Ministry of Health of the Royal Government of Bhutan and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.

Parties to the India-Bhutan Food Security Agreement:

There are many parties to the food security agreement between the two countries. These are as follows:
- Bhutan Food and Drug Authority (BFDA)
- Ministry of Health, Royal Government of Bhutan
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India

Benefits of Food Security Agreement:

The signing of the food security agreement between the two countries will ease trade between the two neighboring countries.
While exporting products from India, BFDA will issue a health certificate as evidence of compliance with the requirements laid down by FSSAI.
This will promote ease of doing business and reduce compliance costs for both parties.

Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI):

FSSAI: Autonomous body under Food Safety Act, 2006.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India is the administrative ministry of FSSAI.
Headquarters: Delhi.
Established: 2008
The functioning of the Food Authority began effectively in the year 2011 after its rules and major regulations were notified.
It also marks a shift from multi-level to single control, with a focus on self-compliance rather than purely regulatory governance.

Functions of FSSAI:

FSSAI provides licensing and certification to food businesses.
Establishing a nationwide information network for food security.
Advising the government in policy making.
To increase general awareness regarding food safety and food standards.
Establishing procedures and guidelines for food business laboratories.
Formulation of rules to set food safety standards and guidelines.
Collecting data on contaminants in food, identifying emerging risks, and implementing early warning systems.

Structure of FSSAI:

FSSAI consists of a Chairman and 22 other members, one-third of whom are women.
The Chairman of FSSAI is appointed by the Government of India.
The primary responsibility for enforcement largely rests with the State Food Safety Commissioners.
The Food Authority receives assistance in setting standards through scientific committees and panels, as well as a Central Advisory Committee in coordination with enforcement agencies.