Fortified Rice Scheme: Recommendations by Parliamentary Panel

Sub: Schemes

Sec: Agri

Context:

The Standing Committee on Consumer Affairs, Food, and Public Distribution has recommended the meticulous implementation of the fortified rice distribution scheme across India.
The initiative aims to eradicate malnutrition and improve the overall health and well-being of vulnerable populations.

Key Recommendations of the Committee

Implementation of Fortified Rice Distribution

The panel emphasized the need for proper implementation, particularly in States where rice is a staple food.
It aims to ensure the effective reach of fortified rice to combat malnutrition.

Budget Estimates and Financial Management

The report noted discrepancies between revised estimates and actual expenditure under the capital section of the Budget for 2024-25.
It recommended the Ministry adopt a more accurate and informed approach while preparing future budget estimates.

Management of Food Subsidy Funds

The panel urged the Union Food Ministry to carefully manage and monitor funds allocated for food subsidy.
It emphasized ensuring free food grains reach the intended beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) with minimal wastage.

Storage Infrastructure Issues

Concern was expressed over the Food Corporation of India (FCI) failing to achieve its physical and financial targets for setting up storage godowns over the past three years.
The committee recommended the Centre formulate a strategy to achieve targets and resolve these issues effectively and timely.

Strengthening of Consumer Commissions

In a separate report, the committee called for immediate action to fill vacancies in consumer commissions at the State and district levels.
Addressing staffing gaps is essential to improve the functioning of the Strengthening of Consumer Commissions (SCC) Scheme.

Food Fortification Program in India

Food fortification is the process of adding essential micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals to food items to improve their nutritional quality.
In India, fortification is seen as a cost-effective and scalable strategy to combat malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Need for Food Fortification in India

India faces a high burden of malnutrition, including deficiencies of iron, vitamin A, iodine, and folic acid.
Anemia, stunting, and other health issues related to poor nutrition affect a significant portion of the population, especially children and pregnant women.
Fortification helps address hidden hunger, where people consume enough calories but lack essential nutrients.

Major Food Fortification Initiatives in India

Rice Fortification Program

The Government of India has launched a fortified rice distribution program under the Public Distribution System (PDS), Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), and Mid-Day Meal (MDM) schemes.
Fortified rice contains added iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 to combat anemia and micronutrient deficiencies.
The program was expanded in phases, with a target to provide fortified rice across India by 2024.

Fortification of Edible Oil

Edible oil is fortified with vitamins A and D to address deficiencies related to vision and bone health.

Fortification of Salt

India has been promoting iodized salt since the 1960s to prevent iodine deficiency disorders (IDD).
Double-fortified salt (DFS) with iodine and iron is also promoted to combat anemia and goiter.

Fortification of Milk

Milk is fortified with vitamins A and D to tackle deficiencies, particularly in children and lactating mothers.
FSSAI has made it mandatory for all major dairy companies to fortify packaged milk.

Wheat Flour (Atta) Fortification

Wheat flour (atta) is fortified with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 under various government programs.
Fortified wheat flour is distributed through PDS and other welfare schemes.

Regulatory Framework for Food Fortification

FSSAI has established Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Foods) Regulations, 2018, which set standards for fortified food products.
The +F logo is used to indicate fortified foods in the market.
The Food Fortification Resource Centre (FFRC) under FSSAI provides technical support for fortification efforts.