New Delhi: In a significant move to address anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies in India, the Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of free fortified rice distribution under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and other welfare schemes. This initiative will run from July 2024 to December 2028, with an estimated financial outlay of Rs 17,082 crore, fully funded by the Central Government.
During a press briefing in New Delhi, Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating that it aims to significantly reduce rates of anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies across the country.
To support this program, a robust supply chain has been established, backed by an investment of Rs 11,000 crore. Currently, there are 925 manufacturers of fortified rice with an annual production capacity of 11 million tonnes.
Rice fortification involves incorporating Fortified Rice Kernels enriched with essential micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, adhering to standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The government previously announced a phased implementation of the rice fortification initiative, aiming for nationwide coverage by March 2024. As of that deadline, the objective of universal access to fortified rice across all government schemes has been achieved.
Data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), conducted between 2019 and 2021, indicates that anaemia remains a critical public health issue, affecting individuals of all ages and income levels. Alongside iron deficiency, other vitamin and mineral shortages, such as vitamin B12 and folic acid, continue to pose significant challenges to the health and productivity of the population.
Globally, food fortification has been recognized as a safe and effective strategy for combating anaemia and micronutrient malnutrition, particularly among vulnerable groups. Given that rice is a staple for approximately 65% of India’s population, it serves as an ideal medium for delivering essential nutrients.
