Key Update

The Centre has introduced new guidelines for Fortified Rice Kernel (FRK) units, requiring them to produce and stock fortified rice before inspection teams arrive. Officials will collect samples on-site and test them in accredited labs. FCI will procure the rice for the public distribution system only if it passes the standards. Punjab’s rice millers warn that the new process could slow operations and increase financial risks.

Government Sets Procurement Targets

Fortified rice is enriched with micronutrients like iron, folic acid, B-complex vitamins, vitamin A, and zinc. The Centre has informed Punjab that mills will produce 104 lakh tonnes of rice from 156 lakh tonnes of procured paddy. Of this, at least 25 lakh tonnes must be upgraded rice with up to 10% broken grains, while the remaining 80 lakh tonnes must be supplied as FRK-mixed rice. Millers say the lack of clarity on sample clearance timelines adds pressure and could lead to heavy losses this season.

Defective Rice Incident Sparks Concern

Concerns grew after FCI inspectors detected defects in freshly milled upgraded rice in Bhogpur, Jalandhar. The lab rejected the sample for containing over 5% chaff, exceeding FSSAI norms. Following the failed test, FCI suspended two technical officers, a field assistant, and a quality manager, causing further panic among rice millers.

Weather-Damaged Paddy Affects Rice Quality

Heavy rains and floods this year severely damaged Punjab’s paddy crop. While the Centre granted limited concessions for paddy procurement on November 10, most procurement had already ended, and no relaxation applied to rice quality standards. Millers say the damaged paddy is now reducing rice quality, and delays in FRK supply have stalled milling operations. Many mills are holding large stocks of procured paddy without clarity on when full-scale production can resume.

Millers Seek Urgent Intervention

The Punjab government requested the Centre to allow 25 lakh tonnes of non-FRK custom-milled rice, but the Centre has not responded. Millers warn that continued delays will further reduce rice quality and cause heavy financial losses. They have urged the state government to intervene and push for a quick resolution.

A senior state food department official acknowledged that this season will be challenging for millers, who may face significant financial setbacks. Punjab Food and Civil Supplies Minister Lal Chand Kataruchak said millers have not formally reported issues yet, but assured that the government will address any concerns they raise.

Source: Hindustan Times