New Delhi, Oct 10:   The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of the universal supply of fortified rice under all government schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and other welfare programs, from July 2024 through December 2028. This decision reaffirms the government’s commitment to improving nutritional security by addressing malnutrition and anemia across the country.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY), the fortified rice initiative will remain a fully funded central sector scheme, as part of the food subsidy program. The program will provide micronutrient-enriched rice through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) and key welfare programs such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and PM POSHAN (formerly Mid-Day Meal) in all states and Union Territories.

The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s focus on nutritional security, highlighted during his 75th Independence Day address. The nationwide rollout of fortified rice followed a decision by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in April 2022, which implemented the program in phases. By March 2024, the government achieved the objective of supplying fortified rice across all its schemes.

Despite these efforts, India continues to face significant malnutrition challenges. The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) from 2019-2021 reveals high levels of anemia, particularly among children and women, as well as ongoing deficiencies in essential nutrients such as Vitamin B12 and folic acid. This has a profound impact on health and productivity.

Fortified rice, a globally recognized solution to malnutrition, plays a vital role in India, where 65% of the population consumes rice as a staple. The fortified rice includes a mix of regular rice with Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK), enriched with iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12, as per standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

The government’s extension of this program reflects its long-term commitment to improving the health of vulnerable populations, especially in combating anemia and micronutrient deficiencies. Over the next five years, the fortified rice initiative aims to strengthen the nutritional security of millions of Indians, ensuring better health outcomes nationwide.