The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a substantial financial allocation of Rs 17,082 crore for the supply of fortified rice as part of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PMGKAY) and other welfare schemes. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that this funding will cover the period from July 2024 to December 2028 and will be fully financed by the central government.
The Cabinet's decision ensures the continuation of free fortified rice distribution under various government schemes, with an investment of Rs 11,000 crore already made to establish an efficient supply chain for fortified rice. This initiative is aimed at promoting inclusive development and enhancing nutritional security across the country, Vaishnaw added.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) previously approved the phased implementation of rice fortification across India, with the goal of achieving universal coverage by March 2024. All three phases of this initiative have been successfully completed, ensuring that fortified rice is available through all government schemes.
According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), conducted between 2019 and 2021, anaemia remains a significant public health issue in India, affecting children, women, and men across various demographics. Alongside iron deficiency, other micronutrient deficiencies, including Vitamin B12 and folic acid, persist, impacting overall health and productivity, the government press release added.
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