The Union Cabinet, led 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 initiatives. This decision extends the program from July 2024 through December 2028.
The fortified rice initiative will remain a central sector scheme, fully funded by the Government of India under PMGKAY’s food subsidy program. This unified approach aims to tackle malnutrition and anemia by ensuring the supply of micronutrient-enriched rice through the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS) and welfare programs like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and PM POSHAN (formerly Mid-Day Meal) across all states and Union Territories.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on nutritional security, highlighted during his 75th Independence Day address. The nationwide distribution of fortified rice began following a decision by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in April 2022 to implement the scheme in phases. By March 2024, the goal of supplying fortified rice through all government schemes had been successfully achieved.
India continues to face a significant malnutrition challenge. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), conducted from 2019 to 2021, anemia remains prevalent across various age groups and income levels, particularly among children and women.
In addition to iron deficiency, the survey highlights ongoing deficiencies in essential nutrients such as Vitamin B12 and folic acid, which negatively impact the overall health and productivity of the population.
Food fortification, a globally recognized method to address malnutrition, has been particularly effective in India, where rice serves as a staple for 65% of the population. Fortified rice involves mixing regular rice with Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) enriched with micronutrients, including iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12, as per standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
This long-term initiative reflects the government’s commitment to improving the health and nutritional status of vulnerable populations, particularly in combating anemia and micronutrient deficiencies. By extending the program, the government aims to provide nutritional security for millions of Indians over the next five years.