Union Cabinet Approves Free Fortified Rice Supply Until December 2028

• The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of free fortified rice supply from July 2024 to December 2028.
• The initiative is a central sector initiative with 100% funding by the Centre, aimed at addressing anaemia and micronutrient deficiency.
• Free fortified rice will be provided under programs like Targeted Public Distribution System, Integrated Child Development Service, and PM POSHAN in all States and Union Territories.
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs had planned to implement the initiative in a phased manner by March 2024.
• The government emphasized that rice is an ideal vehicle for supplying micronutrients in the Indian context, with 65% of the population consuming it as a staple food.