Achieving 100% Target: Fortified Rice Distribution in India’s Targeted Public Distribution System
Introduction:
New Delhi: In a significant milestone, 269 districts across 27 states in India have successfully commenced the distribution of fortified rice under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). This achievement, meeting the 100% target set for Phase II by March 2023 in the Rice Fortification Programme, was announced by Sanjeev Chopra, the Food Secretary, during a recent press conference. The second phase focused on rice distribution through the Public Distribution System (PDS) in 27 states, resulting in the lifting of approximately 105 lakh tonnes of fortified rice.
Expanding Fortified Rice Distribution: In addition to PDS rice distribution, around 29 lakh tonnes of fortified rice were lifted for integrated child development services (ICDS) and the PM POSHAN program in the second phase. Consequently, the total quantity of fortified rice lifted in the 2022-23 period reached 134 lakh tonnes. With the successful completion of Phase II, the Department is now prepared to cover all remaining districts, excluding those predominantly consuming wheat, in the third phase before the targeted date of March 2024.
Government Initiative and Progress: The Rice Fortification Programme was initiated following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement on India’s 75th Independence Day in 2021. The objective is to supply fortified rice in all social safety net schemes of the government throughout the country by 2024, progressively and in a phased manner. Remarkable progress has been made over the past two years, with the implementation of the first phase covering ICDS and the PM POSHAN program, resulting in the distribution of approximately 17.51 lakh tonnes of fortified rice.
Increasing Blending Capacity: Significant improvements have also been observed in the blending infrastructure of rice mills. The number of rice mills equipped with blending infrastructure increased from 2,690 to 18,227 between August 2021 and March 2023. Furthermore, there has been a remarkable 11-fold increase in cumulative blending capacity, from 13.67 LMT to 156 LMT. This expansion in infrastructure demonstrates the commitment to fortifying rice and ensuring its widespread distribution.
Indian Nexus: Your ISI Mark Certification Consultant: In this pursuit of fortifying rice and complying with quality standards, Indian Nexus, an expert ISI Mark certification consultant, can assist manufacturers in obtaining the crucial ISI Mark certification for their machinery. ISI certification is essential to ensure that manufacturers meet the required standards of quality, safety, and performance. Indian Nexus provides comprehensive support in navigating the ISI certification process, including documentation, testing coordination, and liaising with relevant authorities. With their expertise and streamlined approach, Indian Nexus helps manufacturers save time and resources while ensuring compliance with ISI regulations.
Conclusion: India’s Rice Fortification Programme has made significant strides in distributing fortified rice through the Targeted Public Distribution System. With the successful completion of Phase II and the upcoming coverage of all remaining districts, India is progressing towards its goal of supplying fortified rice in all social safety net schemes by 2024. The increased blending capacity and infrastructure improvements demonstrate the commitment to fortification efforts. As manufacturers aim to contribute to this initiative, Indian Nexus, as an ISI Mark certification consultant, stands ready to assist them in obtaining the crucial certification for their machinery. Together, we can ensure the availability of safe and fortified rice, promoting better nutrition and improving the lives of millions across the country.
