India Exports Fortified Rice to Costa Rica: A Boost to Nutrition Diplomacy and Agri Trade

India has exported 12 metric tonnes of fortified rice from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica.
This marks a big step in nutrition diplomacy, international trade, and food technology.
The export was facilitated by APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority).

India Exports Fortified Rice to Costa Rica: A Boost to Nutrition Diplomacy and Agri Trade

What is Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK)?

• Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) is made by mixing rice flour with micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12.
• These are shaped like normal rice grains using a process called extrusion.
• It is then blended with regular rice in a fixed ratio.
• This helps fight micronutrient deficiency (also called hidden hunger).
• In India, fortified rice is distributed through the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Poshan Abhiyan to make the country malnutrition-free.

Role of Chhattisgarh

• Chhattisgarh is known as the “Rice Bowl of India.”
• The state has now moved from domestic distribution to global rice exports.
• This export was supported by farmers, millers, and The Rice Exporters Association of Chhattisgarh (TREA-CG).
• APEDA’s support helped make this export possible.
• The move opens new revenue opportunities and global recognition for Chhattisgarh’s agricultural sector.

Strategic and Economic Importance

For India:

• Promotes nutrition-based international trade.
• Supports India’s goal to become a global food security provider.
• Increases foreign exchange earnings through value-added exports.
• Connects health programs like Kuposhan Mukt Bharat with trade objectives.

For Chhattisgarh:

• Attracts investment in fortification technology and infrastructure.
• Creates new income sources for local farmers and exporters.
• Strengthens Chhattisgarh’s image as a center for agri-based exports.

Question & Answer

Q1. India recently exported its first consignment of Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) to which country?
(a) Brazil
(b) Costa Rica
(c) Argentina
(d) Mexico
Answer: Costa Rica
Explanation: India sent 12 metric tonnes of fortified rice from Chhattisgarh to Costa Rica, marking its first global export of FRK.

Q2. Which organization facilitated the export of fortified rice to Costa Rica?
(a) NABARD
(b) APEDA
(c) FCI
(d) NITI Aayog
Answer: APEDA
Explanation: The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) managed and supported the export process.

Q3. Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) is enriched with which nutrients?
(a) Iron, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12
(b) Calcium, Protein, Zinc
(c) Iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin D
(d) Magnesium, Iodine, Vitamin A
Answer: Iron, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12
Explanation: These micronutrients are added to improve nutritional value and fight hidden hunger.

Q4. Through which government program is fortified rice distributed in India?
(a) Ayushman Bharat
(b) Poshan Abhiyan
(c) Make in India
(d) Krishi Udaan Yojana
Answer: Poshan Abhiyan
Explanation: Fortified rice is provided under the Poshan Abhiyan to reduce malnutrition in India.

Q5. Chhattisgarh is often known as the _______.
(a) Wheat Basket of India
(b) Rice Bowl of India
(c) Maize State of India
(d) Paddy Capital of India
Answer: Rice Bowl of India
Explanation: Chhattisgarh is famous for its large-scale rice production, earning it this title.

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