India Exports Fortified Rice from Chhattisgarh to Papua New Guinea

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), functioning under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has facilitated the export of 20 metric tonnes of fortified rice from Chhattisgarh to Papua New Guinea (PNG).

Significance:

• Marks a major milestone in India’s efforts to promote nutrition-focused agri-exports.
• Strengthens Chhattisgarh’s role as a contributor to global food and nutrition supply chains.
• Reflects India’s growing technological capabilities in food fortification and its commitment to global nutritional security.

About Fortified Rice:

• Produced by blending rice flour with essential micronutrients such as:
  • Iron
  • Folic Acid
  • Vitamin B12
• The mixture is extruded and shaped to look like natural rice grains.
• These fortified kernels are then blended with regular rice in a fixed ratio to improve the overall nutritional value of the staple food.

Broader Context:

• India has been scaling up rice fortification under various national programs, including the PM-Poshan (Mid-Day Meal) and Public Distribution System (PDS).
• The export demonstrates India’s leadership in agri-innovation and its role in supporting food security in developing nations.

Source: PIB