In a bid to enhance the effectiveness of nutritional programs, the Indian government has temporarily halted the fortification of rice under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and related welfare schemes. This decision stems from scientific assessments revealing limitations in current fortification methods amid real-world storage challenges.
The Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ministry commissioned IIT Kharagpur to evaluate the shelf life of fortified rice kernels (FRK) and fortified rice (FR) across diverse agricultural zones. The findings were stark: environmental variables such as humidity, temperature, and storage practices significantly erode nutrient content over time.
Rice procured for these schemes often remains in storage for 2-3 years, given annual consumption of 37.2 million metric tons against stockpiles exceeding 67 million metric tons, including projections from Kharif Marketing Season (KMS) 2025-26. Prolonged storage leads to micronutrient loss, diminishing the health benefits meant for vulnerable populations.
Responding to these insights, authorities have suspended fortification until advanced systems can guarantee nutrient retention and delivery. This interim step safeguards the core objective of providing staple grains without diluted nutritional value.
Crucially, the change imposes no cuts on grain allocations or disruptions to PDS, ICDS, or school meal programs. Regional authorities can opt for fortified or regular rice in logistics for ongoing and future procurements, maintaining seamless supply chains.
This strategic pause reflects a commitment to evidence-based policymaking. As India grapples with malnutrition, refining fortification protocols could pave the way for more impactful interventions, ensuring every grain counts toward better public health.