- 12 metric tonnes of Fortified Rice Kernel exported from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica.
- APEDA facilitated the first consignment under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
- Supports the “Kuposhan Mukt Bharat” programme under Poshan Abhiyan.
- Fortified Rice Kernel enriched with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
- Food Corporation of India distributing fortified rice across India.
- Export aims to boost recognition of Chhattisgarh’s farmers, millers, and exporters.
- APEDA Chairman pledged continued support for fortified food exports.
- Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh planning more FRK exports.
- FRK made by blending rice flour with micronutrients and shaped like rice grains.
- Strengthens India’s role in global food security and nutrition solutions.
The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has taken a major step by enabling the first export of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) from Chhattisgarh. A shipment of 12 metric tonnes has been dispatched to Costa Rica, marking India’s entry into the international market for fortified rice products.
This development is closely aligned with the national goal of a nutrition-secure India, championed through the “Kuposhan Mukt Bharat” initiative under the Poshan Abhiyan. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) has been actively distributing fortified rice across the country to address nutrient deficiencies.
Chhattisgarh has been steadily emerging as a significant contributor to India’s rice export landscape. With continuous efforts to promote fortified and value-added rice products, the state is playing an essential role in boosting the country’s agricultural exports.
APEDA Chairman, Shri Abhishek Dev, lauded the collaborative efforts that led to this milestone. He said that the export of fortified rice reflects India’s commitment to supporting global nutrition through science-backed solutions. He also highlighted APEDA’s support to exporters in exploring additional markets for such enriched products.
The President of the Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh, Shri Mukesh Jain, noted the importance of APEDA’s role in facilitating this initiative. He shared that more export opportunities for fortified rice are being explored and urged for continual cooperation to promote Chhattisgarh as a hub for agricultural exports.
Fortified Rice Kernel is produced through a process where rice flour is mixed with essential micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. These fortified grains are then blended with conventional rice to improve nutritional intake, particularly in vulnerable sections of the population.
The export of this first consignment reinforces India’s growing strength in fortified food production and showcases the country’s capacity to deliver on global food security objectives.