Bhopal, Aug 2 (IANS) The Madhya Pradesh government is taking strict action against those adulterating milk and other food items and has announced rewards for those who inform the authorities about such practices.

Cases against food adulteration are being registered under the stringent National Security Act. In addition, the government will give Rs 11,000 to those who inform about such adulterators.

State Health Minister Tulsiram Silawat on Friday said: "The Kamal Nath government will not tolerate adulterators. These people belong in jails. It is in their interest to stop this malpractice or leave the state. Whoever informs about such people will be rewarded with Rs 11,000 and his identity will not be disclosed."

These steps came after a case of adulteration came to light in Gwalior-Chambal area of the state. Since then, a state-wide campaign against adulteration in food items was started.

"Till Thursday, 1,468 food samples have been taken to check for adulteration under this campaign that started on July 20. They are being tested on. From the 40 that have been tested, 20 are not fulfilling the standard," said Ravindra Singh from the state Food and Drug Administration.