In a major step towards enhancing food security and nutrition in the region, India has partnered with the United Nations World Food Programme (UN WFP) to launch a new collaborative initiative aimed at strengthening rice fortification and supply chain management in Nepal.
This initiative is part of the India-UN Global Capacity Building Initiative, which was officially launched on 1st August 2025 by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, in New Delhi. The Nepal project is among the four key collaborations identified under this initiative to promote South-South cooperation and accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Addressing Gaps in Nepal’s Fortified Rice Supply Chain
The project will tackle critical gaps in Nepal’s rice fortification efforts, particularly in procurement, data collection, and the availability of skilled manpower. By facilitating knowledge sharing, the initiative will enable Nepal to benefit from India’s extensive experience in running its Public Distribution System (PDS) — one of the world’s largest food security networks.
Key focus areas include:
- Beneficiary identification and management
- Storage and distribution models
- Monitoring and evaluation systems
- Grievance redressal mechanisms
- Digital innovations for supply chain efficiency
Three-Phase Project Timeline
The initiative will be implemented over a 12-month period in three phases:
- Needs Assessment & Stakeholder Engagement – Initial groundwork and consultations with Nepali stakeholders.
- Study Visit to India – Field visits, demonstrations, and expert briefings for Nepali officials to experience Indian best practices firsthand.
- Action Plan Development – Final phase to create a strategic, localized implementation plan for Nepal.
Training and technical support will be conducted under India’s Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme. Notably, over 3,000 Nepali officials have already received training in India under ITEC since 2001.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Regional Nutrition Goals
This collaboration builds on the long-standing and vibrant partnership between India and Nepal, particularly in areas of development and food security. It also represents a shared commitment to building resilient food systems, especially for vulnerable populations.
With Nepal importing more than 8 lakh metric tons of rice from India in 2023 alone, the project also aligns with evolving trade dynamics. Fortifying rice with essential micronutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 is expected to significantly improve public health outcomes in Nepal.
A Step Forward for South-South Cooperation
The India-UN Global Capacity Building Initiative, first announced in September 2023 during the 78th UN General Assembly, seeks to promote sustainable development through innovative knowledge exchange between developing nations. This rice fortification project in Nepal marks a promising beginning for future collaborations under the initiative.
As food security and nutrition remain global priorities, this joint effort by India, Nepal, and the UN WFP stands as a testament to the power of regional cooperation, innovation, and shared responsibility in addressing hunger and malnutrition.
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