Rice Fortification Initiative
On October 9, 2024, the Indian Cabinet approved the continuation of the Rice Fortification Initiative, extending the universal supply of fortified rice under various government schemes until December 2028. This initiative is part of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and will be funded entirely by the central government, with an allocation of ₹17,082 crore for its implementation.
Key Highlights:
- Objective: The initiative aims to combat anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies prevalent in India, particularly among vulnerable populations. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) indicated that anaemia affects a significant portion of children, women, and men across various demographics.
- Implementation: The initiative will supply fortified rice through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS), Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and PM POSHAN (formerly the Mid-Day Meal scheme) across all states and Union Territories.
- Fortification Process: Rice fortification involves adding Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK), which are enriched with essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12, to regular rice at a ratio of 1:100. This process ensures that the fortified rice maintains similar taste and texture to traditional rice.
This extension signifies a commitment to improving nutritional security in India, aligning with broader health initiatives aimed at reducing malnutrition and enhancing public health outcomes.