Centre extends free fortified rice distribution till Dec 2028

The initiative aims to reduce anaemia and micronutrient deficiency

NEW DELHI: The Central government has extended the free distribution of fortified rice until 2028, with a budget of Rs 17,082 crore. This initiative aims to reduce anaemia and micronutrient deficiency, particularly among children, women, and men across various age groups and income levels. The fortified rice is enriched with iron, folic acid, and Vitamin B12, essential nutrients that are often lacking in the diets of many Indians.

The decision to extend the program was made at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The rice fortification process involves the addition of Fortified Rice Kernels (FRK) enriched with micro-nutrients (iron, folic acid, Vitamin B12) as per standards prescribed by food regulator FSSAI to regular rice (custom milled rice).