Mangaluru: The Savayava Krishika Grahaka Balaga has launched an initiative to create awareness among parents, especially mothers, about healthy eating habits for children.Organising secretary K Ratnakar Kulai said the idea emerged after a study he conducted in schools over the past few months, during which he observed students’ eating patterns. He found that many children relied heavily on unhealthy meals, which prompted the balaga to design a training programme for parents.As part of this effort, a model training session was held recently. “We interacted with at least 100 students from classes VII to X in the last few months. Based on our observations, we felt the need to train parents. Small groups of mothers will be brought together, and our team will guide them on preparing simple, healthy dishes such as tambuli and unde, along with items that can be easily packed in tiffin boxes,” Ratnakar said.Around 60 people participated in the first training programme, of whom 10 will serve as resource persons in future sessions. The balaga also plans to publish a handbook on healthy eating as part of the drive. He said that even school canteens are selling junk food, and in some cases, students as young as in class VII were found taking antacids. “This is not a healthy trend. There are several effective home remedies for minor stomach uneasiness. At a time when even parents enjoy junk food, we are working to develop healthier habits,” he said. The team will soon reach out to organisations and associations to take the campaign forward. The team is also willing to give live demonstrations on the healthy food items.The Balaga, which has been encouraging people to grow vegetables, flowers, ornamental and medicinal plants, has also planned a plant sale. Its members will put plants grown in their own gardens for sale on Sept 14 and 28 at the weekly market venue on Panje Mangesh Rao Road, Hampankatta, between 7am and 10am.