Patna: The Indian government has withdrawn the mandatory requirement to distribute fortified rice through the public distribution system, in a move officials say will ease procurement pressures and smooth supply operations. The decision, confirmed by the Government of Bihar, has been welcomed by state authorities who argued that compulsory fortification had slowed down procurement in recent months.
Fortified rice regular rice blended with essential micronutrients was introduced as part of a nationwide nutritional initiative aimed at tackling deficiencies among vulnerable populations. However, several states reported practical difficulties in implementation. Millers and supply agencies faced shortages of fortified rice kernels, which in turn disrupted procurement cycles and delayed distribution.
Leshi Singh, Bihar’s food and consumer protection minister, described the withdrawal as a “farmer-friendly” and pragmatic decision. She said the state had received official communication from Union minister Pralhad Joshi confirming that the mandatory provision had been scrapped.
Alongside the policy change, the Centre has extended the paddy procurement deadline from February 28 to March 31. The extension is expected to benefit farmers who were unable to sell their produce within the earlier timeframe, particularly in regions where procurement operations had slowed due to supply chain constraints.
Officials say removing the mandatory clause will reduce congestion at procurement centres and help accelerate payments to farmers. With the revised timeline now in place, state governments are aiming to complete procurement targets more efficiently while ensuring that farmers receive timely compensation for their harvest.
