Fortified Rice Initiative Strengthens Nutrition in India
The Government of India has scaled up the distribution of fortified rice under various food safety net programmes by March 2024. This move is part of the Anemia Mukt Bharat (AMB) initiative launched in 2018 to combat micronutrient deficiencies, especially anaemia. The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of universal fortified rice supply till December 2028 with full government funding amounting to Rs 17,082 crore.
Anemia Mukt Bharat
AMB aims to reduce anaemia through fortified foods rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. Rice fortification began as a pilot in 2019 targeting rice-consuming populations. It now forms a critical part of government schemes supplying custom-milled rice. Fortified rice improves haemoglobin levels and supports mental and neurological health.
Role of Food Safety Net Programmes
Under schemes such as the Public Distribution System (PDS) and PM POSHAN (school meals), fortified rice replaces normal rice. This ensures widespread access to micronutrient-enriched food. The Department of Food and Public Distribution shoulders the cost of fortification, ensuring affordability and reach.
Complementary Fortified Products
Double Fortified Salt (DFS) containing iron and iodine and fortified edible oils enriched with vitamins A and D are used alongside fortified rice. DFS helps combat iron deficiency anaemia and goitre. Fortified oils prevent vitamin A and D deficiencies. Together, they provide comprehensive micronutrient support.
School Nutrition and Child Development
The Department of School Education and Literacy integrates fortified rice into meals under PM POSHAN. This addresses micronutrient deficiencies among schoolchildren across all States and Union Territories. Improved nutrition enhances cognitive development, learning outcomes and overall health.
Nutrition Support from Dairy Sector
The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) Foundation for Nutrition promotes fortified milk products. Its Gift Milk programme distributed over 7 lakh litres of milk benefiting approximately 41,700 children in 11 states. This initiative raises awareness on malnutrition and encourages milk consumption as part of a balanced diet.
Women and Adolescent Nutrition
Fortified rice is also provided under the Wheat Based Nutrition Programme and Scheme for Adolescent Girls. These efforts target micronutrient deficiencies in women and adolescent girls to reduce anaemia and improve health outcomes, supporting national nutrition goals.
Food Processing Industry and Nutritional Development
The Ministry of Food Processing Industries supports infrastructure and innovation through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana and PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises. These programmes enhance food processing capacity, reduce wastage, create jobs and promote processed food exports, indirectly supporting nutrition security.
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