As per the policy of the Government of India to achieve uniform nutritional impact of fortified rice among targeted population, a one-day awareness programme on fortified rice was organised by Food & Civil Supplies Department, Phek, in collaboration with PATH, Technical Partner, on August 23, at Town Hall, Phek under the slogan “Bhal Khalua, Desh Mazboot Korene” (good nutrition for healthy nation).
A press release Food & Civil Supplies Department, Phek, stated that addressing the gathering, Deputy Commissioner, Kumar Ramnikhant, informed that rise of anaemia in the country was alarming and stated that fortification of rice was an effective, preventive strategy to address the issue.
He also stressed on the need to adapt to changing times and not to get carried away by social media but to be informed oneself. He reminded that it was not only the duty of the government to spread awareness on fortified rice but also the responsibility of every leader.
Resource person, State Technical Officer, PATH, Shanpanthung Ezung, in his message stressed that the department was making all-out effort to ensure implementation of rice fortification to address anaemia and also informed that rice fortification was a process of adding micronutrients such as Iron, Folic Acid and vitamin B-12, which was an effective and preventive strategy to combat malnutrition diseases.
He noted that fortified rice was safe and scientifically proven to boast and maintain a nutritional diet and further cited that all fortified items were tagged with plus F logo. He also cleared misconception of fortified rice claiming to be plastic rice during interaction hour.