From Raipur to Costa Rica: Indian rice finds global plate

Chhattisgarh has sent its first-ever consignment of fortified rice kernels (FRK) all the way to Costa Rica — a journey that began in the fields and rice mills of central India and now lands on Latin American tables.

The 12-metric-tonne consignment, facilitated by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) under the Commerce Ministry, marks India’s first export of fortified rice from Chhattisgarh. For local farmers and millers, it’s not just a trade achievement, it’s a sign that their produce can now contribute to the world’s nutritional needs.

“This export is a powerful reflection of India’s twin goals, empowering farmers and fighting hidden hunger. It strengthens our agri-export portfolio while advancing the Prime Minister’s vision of a Kuposhan Mukt Bharat (malnutrition-free India),” said APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, congratulating the state’s exporters.

The fortified rice kernels — made by blending rice flour with vital micronutrients such as iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 — are designed to boost nutritional intake without changing taste or cooking habits. Each grain, produced through precise extrusion technology, mirrors the look of ordinary rice, but carries the power to tackle malnutrition.

Mukesh Jain, President of the Rice Exporters’ Association of Chhattisgarh, called it a “moment of pride” for the state’s farmers and millers. “With APEDA’s support, we’ve opened new global doors for Chhattisgarh’s rice. More consignments to new destinations are already being planned,” he said.

Officials said the initiative aligns with the government’s Poshan Abhiyan and the Food Corporation of India’s ongoing distribution of fortified rice across the country. The Costa Rica shipment, they noted, is symbolic of how India’s domestic nutrition mission is now extending beyond borders.

For Chhattisgarh, often referred to as India’s rice bowl, the export marks a quiet revolution — one that transforms a staple into a science-backed product capable of improving health outcomes globally.

As the containers rolled out from Raipur, the milestone resonated beyond the mills and warehouses — it carried with it a larger message: that India’s grain, once destined only for domestic plates, is now helping feed a healthier world.