The Fortified Rice Initiative, launched by the Indian government, aims to tackle widespread micronutrient deficiencies prevalent in the country. This ambitious initiative was officially approved for continuation by the Union Cabinet, which plans to supply free fortified rice under various welfare schemes until December 2028. The initiative is a key part of strategies like the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and other social safety net programs, targeting approximately 80 crore people.
The ongoing Fortified Rice Initiative is seen as a critical strategy in India’s fight against nutritional deficiencies. By leveraging rice as a widely consumed staple, the program not only addresses immediate health needs but also supports long-term economic growth through improved public health outcomes. As India continues to expand this initiative, it aims to set a precedent for addressing malnutrition through food fortification globally.
Based on this global scientific review, the committee found no evidence suggesting that iron-fortified rice poses a health risk to individuals with these hemoglobinopathies. A large community study in India, involving over 8,000 participants from tribal areas, indicated that nearly two-thirds of patients with Sickle Cell Disease experienced iron deficiency. No specific evidence exists regarding harm from consuming fortified rice for sickle cell anemia or thalassemia .
It is notable that organizations like WHO and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also do not mandate such advisories on packaging.