The initiative aims to provide fortified rice containing essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 through ration shops, mid-day meals, and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) schemes

In October 2024, PM Narendra Modi chaired a cabinet meeting approving the continuation of free fortified rice distribution under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) from July 2024 to December 2028. India’s rice fortification (which comprises essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12) aims to combat malnutrition by providing fortified rice to 80 crore beneficiaries. However, the initiative faces quality-related challenges. A regional analysis has revealed significant disparities in the distribution of testing laboratories, with some states having limited or no access to these facilities. Moreover, there’s a crucial lack of standardised testing protocols, capacity building, and continuous training for laboratory personnel. At the same time, the root causes of malnutrition should be addressed, including poverty, inadequate maternal nutrition, and poor access to healthcare. Experts recommend a holistic, region-specific approach to tackle malnutrition effectively, rather than relying solely on fortification. Let’s dig deeper.

In October 2024, PM Narendra Modi chaired a cabinet meeting approving the continuation of free fortified rice distribution under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) from July 2024 to December 2028. The initiative aims to provide fortified rice containing essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 through ration shops, mid-day meals, and Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) schemes.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), in February last year, released an updated list of notified laboratories across the country for testing fortificants in Fortified Rice, Fortified Rice Kernels, and vitamin-mineral premixes. However, a regional analysis of the distribution of these laboratories reveals significant disparities. The Southern region has the highest concentration of testing facilities, with states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala accounting for nearly 35 per cent of the total. Northern India, including Haryana, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh, follows closely with about 30 per cent of the labs. Western India, particularly Maharashtra and Gujarat, has around 20 per cent of the total testing infrastructure. In contrast, Eastern and Northeastern states, such as West Bengal, Assam, and Jharkhand, have far fewer laboratories, collectively making up less than 15 per cent.

Published Date: March 6, 2025