The Indian government aims to achieve complete rice fortification across all districts by the end of the fiscal year. This initiative, costing Rs 2,680 crore annually, is designed to enhance the nutritional content of rice with vitamins. The effort, divided into phases, has shown positive results in improving nutritional security. Despite concerns about guidelines related to fortification, officials assert that fortified rice consumption is safe and beneficial, particularly in addressing issues like anemia. The government’s commitment to fortifying rice stems from its pledge to mitigate malnutrition and enhance public health. The program’s implementation has been divided into multiple phases, with the first two already underway and the third recently initiated. Fortified rice production aligns with FSSAI standards, requiring the incorporation of Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12.
UPSC Prelims Topics
- Fortified Rice: Rice enriched with essential vitamins and minerals to address nutritional deficiencies.
- FSSAI: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India, responsible for regulating and promoting food safety.
- Anemia: A condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells, often resulting in fatigue and weakness.
- Micronutrients: Essential nutrients required in small quantities for the proper functioning of the body.
UPSC Mains & Interview Questions
- How does the government plan to address malnutrition through rice fortification?
- Hint: The government aims to distribute fortified rice through Central schemes to combat malnutrition.
- What are the key phases of the rice fortification program?
- Hint: The program has three phases: Phase-I, Phase-II, and Phase-III, each targeting specific districts. Phase-I through ICDS and PM POSHAN, Phase-II in 291 targeted districts, and Phase-III initiated this year to complete distribution.
- What are the concerns regarding FSSAI guidelines on fortification?
- Hint: There are concerns about the requirement for a cautionary statement on packages fortified with Iron for Thalassemia patients.
- How does fortification help combat anemia?
- Hint: Fortified rice contains micronutrients like Iron, which can help reduce the prevalence of anemia.
- What scientific panel was involved in the safety assessment of fortified rice?
- Hint: The panel led by Reena Das of PGIMER assessed the safety of fortified rice for individuals with Haemoglobinopathies and SCD.
- What micronutrients are added during the fortification process?
- Hint: Fortified rice is enriched with Iron, Folic Acid, and Vitamin B12, in accordance with FSSAI standards.
