CAF&PD clarifies on rice adulteration report
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR
Imphal, July 16 2023:
Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution (CAF& PD) director Robertson Asem had clarified on media report about suspected adulteration in the rice supplied under National Food Security Act, (NFSA) .
Speaking to media per sons at DIPR Auditorium, Nityaipat Chuthek on Sunday, Robertson informed that the rice supplied under NFSA are fortified rice and there is no plastic, as reported in the media.
While reminding that the same clarification had already been issued in the recent past, he explained that during the fortification process, essential vitamins (B12) and minerals (iron, folic acid) are added to the grains to enhance the nutritious value.
As per the guidelines of the Government of India, the main objective is to increase the nutritious value and to have good health for the general public, he added.
Replying to the media queries, the director stated that one can reach out to the CAF&PD Department Helpline No.1967 for any clarification/issues related to distribution of NFSA rice, while adding that appropriate legal action will be taken, if needed.
At present, 35,800 metric tonne of rice are in stock, while the required demand of the state is around 11,357 metric tonne.
As such, the stock will last for 2 - 3 months, he said, and informed that efforts are being made to bring in more rice from Jiri.