In the recent developments, Tamil Nadu government has blamed the Union government for causing delays in Paddy Procurement and disrupting the supply chain, mentioning that delays in approving blending of fortified rice kernels (FRK) and relaxing moisture content norms.
Moreover, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin dismissed these germination issues claims and procurement delays citing that the way is following the track.
Union govt’s delay in approving fortified rice scheme for disrupting the supply chain.
On Thursday, Oct 23 Udhayanidhi blamed opposition leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami for disseminating misinformation regarding the germination issue and procurement issue. He stated that the farmers did not submit any petitions anywhere related to the lack of procurement. They have procured 10 lakh tonnes in the past 50 days. In addition, Food minister R Sakkarapani accused the Union govt’s delay in approving fortified rice scheme for disrupting the supply chain. He added that they are yet to receive the approval to date, leading to the accumulation in storage points.
Fortified Rice compulsory for distribution under PDS scheme
Fortified rice is compulsory for distribution under central government schemes like the public distribution system, integrated child development services, and the mid-day meal scheme in March 2024. Notably, the initiative intends to address micronutrient deficiencies by fortifying rice with essential vitamins and minerals. Fortified Rice Kernels (FRKs) are enriched with iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 are blended with regular rice at a 1:100 ratio in modern rice mills and private hulling mills during paddy processing. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sets guidelines for fortification of rice to be supplied for schemes. It revised the guidelines this year and prompted Tamil Nadu government to invite bids and onboard five new companies to produce FRKs. These companies undergone for training in Delhi, and their samples are currently under laboratory testing by the Union govt, awaiting approval.