An awareness program aimed at promoting and understanding of fortified rice and the fortification of Public Distribution System (PDS) rice with iron folic acid and vitamin B12 was conducted at Town Hall, Wokha on August 25.
The event was attended by stakeholders including Fair Price Shop (FPS) dealers, Village Council chairmen, ward chairmen, Gaon Burahs (GBs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and others.
A DIPR report informed that EAC Wokha, Luchui Fithu graced the event as special guest and State Technical Officer from PATH (an international organization), Shanpathung Ezung, as resource person.
Addressing the gathering, Luchui highlighted that the Central Government, in a concerted effort to combat anemia and malnutrition, has approved the distribution of fortified rice through the Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state agencies.
The initiative was aimed to improve the overall health of the population by ensuring uniform nutritional impact across various states under food security schemes by 2024.
She therefore urged the attendees to share the knowledge gained from the awareness program within their communities and to disregard rumors and misinformation on social media that falsely claim fortified rice to be plastic rice.
Shanpathung Ezung emphasized the challenging situation of anemia and malnutrition in India.
He stated that 58.4% of children, 53.1% of reproductive women, 22.7% of men, and 35.7% of children under 5 years were underweight.
He said that addressing these issues required a multi-pronged approach, and the Central government has taken the step of mandating rice fortification in all social safety net schemes by 2024.
Ezung debunked misconceptions by clarifying that fortified rice was not plastic rice; instead, was enriched with essential micronutrients to supplement overall health. He explained how to identify fortified rice and showcased its quality.