India Signs Five-Year Rice Pact with WFP

India has signed a five-year agreement with the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support global hunger relief through sustained rice supplies. The move strengthens New Delhi’s role in addressing food insecurity amid rising humanitarian crises across Africa, West Asia and conflict-affected regions. The pact reflects India’s growing engagement in global food security and humanitarian cooperation.

Scope of the Agreement

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and the World Food Programme. Under the agreement, India will supply up to 200,000 metric tonnes of rice over five years to support emergency food assistance operations. The rice supplied may include up to 25 per cent broken grains, in line with humanitarian distribution norms.

The agreement may be extended beyond five years by mutual consent. It aims to ensure predictable and timely availability of food grains for vulnerable populations in crisis-hit regions.

Pricing and Supply Mechanism

The price of rice will be finalised annually through mutual consultation between FCI and WFP. For the current supply cycle, the price has been fixed at Rs 2,800 per quintal until March 31, 2026. This structured pricing mechanism ensures stability in procurement and planning for humanitarian missions.

The pact was formalised by senior officials from both sides, signalling institutional commitment. It provides operational clarity for procurement, logistics and distribution channels under WFP-led missions.

India’s Expanding Global Food Role

The agreement highlights India’s increasing contribution to global food systems. As one of the world’s largest producers of rice, India plays a central role in stabilising international grain markets. The partnership underscores India’s positioning as a responsible stakeholder in global development and humanitarian relief.

Food insecurity remains acute due to conflicts, climate shocks and funding shortages faced by multilateral agencies. India’s support is expected to enhance WFP’s ability to deliver nutritious food efficiently to crisis-affected communities.

Important Facts for Exams

• World Food Programme (WFP) is the food assistance arm of the United Nations and a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
• Food Corporation of India (FCI) operates under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution.
• India is the world’s largest exporter of rice and a major contributor to global grain supply chains.
• The Zero Hunger goal is part of Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG 2).

Strategic Significance for Global South

The pact reinforces India’s broader diplomatic outreach to the Global South. By combining agricultural strength with humanitarian outreach, New Delhi is projecting leadership on development, nutrition and food resilience. The agreement balances international commitments with domestic food security priorities, reflecting India’s dual role as both provider and protector of food stability.