Govt of MP launches rice fortification pilot prog

Fortified rice to be provided at Rs 1 per kg to beneficiaries

The Government of Madhya Pradesh (MP) has launched the rice fortification pilot programme in Singrauli district. The launch of the pilot programme builds on the Prime Minister’s vision of fortifying all rice distributed through ration shops or the rice provided to children in the mid-day meal, by 2024.

 

Bisahulal Singh, Food and Civil Supplies Consumer Protection Minister distributed fortified rice among some beneficiaries of the public distribution system and felicitated the millers for the contribution to the rice fortification pilot. Through this initiative, fortified rice will be provided at a rate of Rs 1/- per kg to the beneficiaries of the public distribution system.

 

Speaking at the launch, Tarun Pithore, MD, Madhya Pradesh State Civil Supplies Corporation said, “Rice is an ideal vehicle for fortification. The inclusion of fortified rice in the public distribution system will offer a sustainable and cost-effective method for improving the nutritional status of the population in the state.”

 

Nutrition International, a global nutrition organisation working with the government of Madhya Pradesh since 2006, is extending its technical expertise to ensure the successful implementation of this programme. Nutrition International is supporting in planning, budgeting, capacity building and strengthening of review and monitoring of the programme and strengthening quality assurance and control mechanism for better quality and coverage of the programme.

 

Speaking at the event, Mansi Shekhar, State Program Representative, Nutrition International Madhya Pradesh said, “One of the most effective, scalable, affordable, and sustainable ways to address micronutrient deficiencies among vulnerable populations is through the distribution of fortified staples via the social safety net programmes.”