Pune Mental Hospital Reintroduces Chicken in Meals for Inmates After 28 Years
Improving Nutrition for Inmates
RMH houses 977 inmates (673 males and 304 females), including over 100 patients with chronic illnesses such as tuberculosis (TB) and compromised immunity. The hospital provides breakfast and two meals daily, with an additional high-protein diet consisting of fruits and dry fruits for patients with chronic conditions.As part of this initiative, the hospital collaborated with the Venkateshwara Hatcheries Group, which agreed to supply 70 kg of chicken twice a month, with plans to increase the supply to 90 kg per week. The chicken is being provided free of cost under the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) program.
Chicken Reintroduced After Decades
A senior RMH official, speaking anonymously, shared insight into why non-vegetarian meals were removed in the past. “All mental hospitals in the state used to serve vegetarian and non-vegetarian food until 1997, when reports of some patients experiencing bones getting stuck in their throats led to the discontinuation of chicken meals. To avoid such incidents, the reintroduced chicken will be broiler and boneless.”The first batch of chicken was delivered to RMH on Wednesday, and the meal was well-received. According to the official, “The inmates enjoyed their meals, and there was almost zero food waste.”
Medical Benefits of Chicken in Diet
Dr. Shrinivas Kolod, Medical Superintendent at RMH, emphasized the importance of this change. “Including chicken in meals increases protein intake, which is especially beneficial for patients with chronic conditions,” he explained.This thoughtful initiative reflects the hospital’s commitment to improving patient health and nutrition while addressing past concerns.
