Fortified Rice Scheme Extended Till 2028 with ₹17,082 Crore Government Funding

The Government of India has approved the extension of the Fortified Rice Scheme under food welfare programmes until December 2028, committing ₹17,082 crore. This move aims to combat anaemia and nutritional deficiencies by supplying rice enriched with Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12 through various welfare schemes.

Universal Supply of Fortified Rice Approved with Full Funding

In a significant step under the Anemia Mukt Bharat initiative, the Government began fortifying rice in 2019. By March 2024, all custom-milled rice distributed through food safety net programmes was fortified. Now with the scheme extended till December 2028, it will continue to cater to a large section of the population, with ₹17,082 crore fully funded by the Centre.

Fortified Staples Power Nutritional Meals in PM POSHAN Scheme

All States and Union Territories are using fortified rice to prepare school meals under the flagship PM POSHAN Scheme. Meals also include Double Fortified Salt and fortified edible oil enriched with Vitamins A and D to combat micronutrient deficiencies. This holistic approach significantly promotes mental, emotional, and neurological well-being among students.

Read More: India Aims for 10% Share of Global Green Hydrogen Market!

NDDB’s Gift Milk Supports 41,700 Children Across 11 States

The National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), through its Foundation for Nutrition, delivers fortified milk to school children under the Gift Milk Programme. It has provided 7.10 lakh litres of milk, translating to 35.4 lakh child milk days in 257 schools across 11 states, supported through CSR funding and grants.

Targeting Women's and Adolescent Health Through WBNP and SAG

Since 2021-22, fortified rice has replaced regular rice under the Wheat-Based Nutrition Programme and Scheme for Adolescent Girls. This intervention plays a vital role in reducing malnutrition and anaemia among women and adolescents by addressing iron and vitamin deficiencies.

Food Processing Sector Role via PMKSY and PLISFPI

The Ministry of Food Processing Industries is complementing the initiative through schemes like PMKSY, PLISFPI, and PMFME. These aim to enhance food processing infrastructure, reduce wastage, promote exports and facilitate industry growth through demand-driven support mechanisms.

Conclusion

With a ₹17,082 crore budget until 2028, the Fortified Rice Scheme integrates nutrition into welfare, education, and women's health systems. Supporting measures like fortified milk and national food processing schemes enhance its impact, contributing towards a healthier India.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities or companies mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation or investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in securities are subject to market risks. Read all related documents carefully before investing.