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Govt Approves Universal Fortified Rice Supply Till 2028
Context:
The Indian government approved the continuation of universal fortified rice distribution under all Union schemes, including PMGKAY, from July 2024 to December 2028, to address anaemia and micronutrient deficiency.
Key Points of the Decision:
- Approval by the Union Cabinet: The approval was granted on October 9, 2023, during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This marks the continuation of the rice fortification initiative.
- Fortification as a Central Sector Initiative: The supply of fortified rice will be centrally funded under PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and other Union government schemes.
- This initiative is designed to ensure 100% funding by the Central Government, streamlining its implementation across the country.
Rice Fortification:
- Fortification adds essential micronutrients to foods to boost public health. In rice fortification, nutrients like iron, folic acid, vitamins B-12, A, and zinc are added.
- Micronutrients Added Per Kg: Iron, folic acid, vitamin B-12, vitamin A, and B-vitamins are infused to enhance rice’s nutritional quality.
Why Rice Fortification?
- Dependence on Rice: India is the second-largest producer and consumer of rice, responsible for around 20% of global production. Nearly one-third of Indians rely on rice as a staple food for daily sustenance.
- High Malnutrition Levels: Malnutrition, especially anaemia among women and stunted growth in children, is prevalent. Rice fortification can help address these deficiencies.
Previous Initiatives:
- The initiative began under various schemes like TPDS, ICDS, PM POSHAN, and the Targeted Public Distribution System, aiming to tackle micronutrient deficiency.
- In April 2022, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs decided on phased implementation nationwide by March 2024.
Health Concerns:
- Risks for Haemoglobinopathies Patients: People with thalassemia and sickle cell disease are contraindicated from consuming iron-fortified products, as excess iron can lead to organ failure.
- Regulatory Guidelines: As per Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulation, 2018, fortified rice should carry health warnings for such individuals. However, recent amendments proposed by FSSAI suggest removing these warnings.
Controversies and Expert Concerns:
- Supreme Court Ruling: In October 2023, the Supreme Court directed the government to address concerns about the indiscriminate distribution of fortified rice to individuals with thalassemia and sickle cell disease.
- Debate on Iron Deficiency: There is an ongoing debate on whether iron deficiency is a universal issue across the population. This raises questions about the necessity of mandatory fortification for all.
- Impact on Dietary Diversity: Experts argue that focusing heavily on rice fortification may reduce dietary diversity. The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) recommends a diverse diet for balanced nutrition, while fortification might inadvertently prioritise rice consumption over other nutrient-rich foods.
