PORVORIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant acknowledged on Friday that some ration cardholders were selling subsidized rice in the open market. He announced the government’s intention to raise awareness about fortified rice distributed through fair price shops, outlining the pros and cons of its consumption.
Aldona MLA Adv Carlos Alvares Ferreira raised concerns in the Assembly about whether beneficiaries were adequately informed about the statutory warnings related to the rice.
“Without a conscious decision and without identifying the target groups or areas which need increase in iron, how can the government put citizens at risk by pushing fortified rice to everybody? Because not everyone needs fortified rice. You may say women require fortified rice, because women mostly are anaemic, and some children too. But if you give it to men with adequate iron, there may be complications,” said Ferreira.
Sawant assured that provision would be made to provide regular rice to beneficiaries who inform the government of their specific dietary needs.
Sawant highlighted that the government commenced the distribution of fortified rice under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in March last year, replacing regular rice to enhance nutritional benefits.
Sawant emphasised the Union government’s approval of a centrally sponsored scheme for fortification of rice and its distribution under the Public Distribution System (PDS) to combat anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies.
He said that though there were no reports indicating the adverse effects on account of consumption of fortified rice, some concerns were raised about the impact of consumption of fortified rice amongst some sections of the population that are vulnerable to thalassaemia and sickle cell anaemia patients. He stated that those suffering from thalassemia may consume fortified rice under medical supervision.
Sawant said that the government would conduct regular awareness activities to promote the benefits of fortified rice. Leaflets in English, Marathi, and Konkani will be distributed through fair price shops to ensure that people are aware about what they are consuming, he added.
