In pursuance of Subrule 1 of Rule 15 of the Bureau of Indian Standards Rules, 2018, the Bureau of Indian Standards

## Policy Analysis Report: Notification Regarding Indian Standards for Fortified Rice **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, effective November 16, 2021. The notification establishes new Indian Standards related to fortified rice, specifically concerning specifications for fortified rice, vitamin and mineral premixes for manufacturing fortified rice kernels, and fortified rice kernels themselves. This policy aims to standardize the production and quality of fortified rice within India. **2. Introduction:** This report aims to provide a detailed overview of the BIS notification regarding Indian Standards for fortified rice, based solely on the information presented in the provided policy text. It outlines the policy's objectives, key provisions, target audience, and anticipated impact, facilitating a clear understanding of the standards' implications. **3. Policy Overview:** This is a *new policy* establishing standards. * **Core Objective(s):** The core objective is to establish and notify Indian Standards for fortified rice, vitamin and mineral premix for manufacturing fortified rice kernels and fortified rice kernels. This aims to ensure quality and consistency in the production of fortified rice. **4. Background and Rationale:** As a new policy establishing standards, the notification likely addresses the need for standardized production and quality control within the fortified rice industry. The issue the policy addresses is the need for standardization around fortified rice to help tackle malnutrition in India. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** As a new policy, the key provisions are as follows: * **Establishment of New Standards:** The notification establishes three new Indian Standards: * IS 17780:2021: Fortified Rice Specification * IS 17781:2021: Vitamin and Mineral Premix for Manufacturing Fortified Rice Kernels Specification * IS 17782:2021: Fortified Rice Kernels Specification * **Effective Date:** All three standards are established with effect from November 16, 2021. * **Concurrent Standards:** The notification states that no other Indian Standards will remain in force concurrently and be withdrawn on a specified date. * **Availability of Standards:** The notification indicates that copies of these standards are available for purchase from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) at its various offices and online platform. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** Based on the text, the primary target audience and stakeholders include: * **Manufacturers of Fortified Rice:** Those involved in the production of fortified rice and fortified rice kernels. * **Manufacturers of Vitamin and Mineral Premixes:** Companies producing the premixes used in fortifying rice. * **Consumers:** Indirectly affected as the policy aims to improve the quality and nutritional value of fortified rice available in the market. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the responsible body for establishing and implementing these standards. * **Procedures:** The notification references Subrule 1 of Rule 15 of the Bureau of Indian Standards Rules, 2018, implying adherence to the established procedures within these rules for standard establishment. * **Enforcement:** The policy itself doesn't specify enforcement mechanisms. Enforcement mechanisms would likely fall under BIS guidelines. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcomes and impact of these standards include: * **Improved Quality and Consistency:** Standardization of fortified rice production processes. * **Enhanced Nutritional Value:** Ensuring that fortified rice meets specific nutritional requirements. * **Market Competitiveness:** The fortification could position manufacturers to be more competitive in government programs and other similar initiatives. * **Consumer Confidence:** Increased consumer trust in the quality and safety of fortified rice. **9. Conclusion:** The BIS notification establishing Indian Standards for fortified rice represents a significant step towards improving the quality and nutritional content of rice available to consumers. By standardizing production processes and ingredient specifications, the policy aims to ensure consistency, quality, and consumer trust in fortified rice products. This notification is of particular importance to fortified rice manufacturers and manufacturers of premixes, who are directly impacted by the new requirements. While the text doesn't provide enforcement details, the notification indicates a clear intention to regulate and standardize this sector.

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