India has launched a new initiative to enhance rice quality and supply chain management in Nepal. This Initiative, implemented with the support of the United Nations Food Programme, will aid the rice fortification effort.
Initiative to address gaps in Nepal’s fortified rice supply chain
This initiative is part of the India-United Nations Global Capacity Building Initiative, launched by the Ministry of External Affairs on August 1. According to a statement issued by the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, the initiative in Nepal aims to address gaps in Nepal’s fortified rice supply chain, particularly in procurement processes, data collection, and skilled workforce, by facilitating knowledge exchange with India’s successful Public Distribution System (PDS). Additionally, it offers Nepal’s stakeholders the chance to learn from India’s experience in harnessing digital technologies for efficient food supply chain management. The focus areas include beneficiary management, storage and distribution models, monitoring and evaluation systems, and grievance redressal mechanisms.
Duration of the Initiative
Notably, the initiative will be carried out in three phases over 12 months. The first phase will involve assessing needs and engaging stakeholders. The second phase will include a study tour of India for Nepali officials featuring practical demonstrations and expert briefings. The final phase will concentrate on developing an action plan. The training component will be delivered through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme of the Government of India. Since 2001, more than 3,000 Nepali officials have been trained in India